Thai Youth HIV Infections Surge

BANGKOK, July 8 (TNA) - Thailand is seeing a significant surge in HIV infections, particularly among young people, attributed by health authorities to evolving sexual attitudes, decreased condom use, and a perception among Gen Z that HIV is treatable.

The National Health Security Office (NHSO) reported over 547,000 cumulative HIV cases as of 2025, with more than 13,000 new infections this year, largely due to unsafe sexual practices. The NHSO noted a marked decline in condom use among youth, partly driven by a new generation's less cautious view of HIV.

Addressing the Senate on Monday, Deputy Public Health Minister Chaichana Dechdecho acknowledged the overall decline in HIV cases but confirmed a worrying increase among youth. The Ministry of Public Health (MoPH) plans partnerships with educational institutions to distribute condoms, provide sexual health education, and expand HIV testing. The MoPH aims to cap new annual infections at 1,000 and deaths at 4,000.

Provinces with rising infection rates include Bangkok, Chonburi, Khon Kaen, and Nakhon Ratchasima, often due to high tourist traffic.

Thailand allocates approximately 8.4 billion baht annually for HIV prevention and patient care, including treatment costs averaging 12,000 baht per person, covering over 5,700 foreign nationals.  - 819 (TNA)