Thailand Warns Teens as STD’s and HIV Infections on the Rise

As the frequency of HIV infections and STD’s among teenagers rises, Thailand’s Health Department is urging them to be aware of safe sex practises and the avoidance of both pregnancy and sexually transmitted diseases (STIs).

According to Dr. Achara Nithiaphinyasakul, interim director-general of the Department of Health, the department intends to raise awareness among the young about healthy sexual relationship practises though sex education in schools .

The department’s deputy director-general, Dr Ekachai Piensriwatchara, noted that gender respect and conscientiousness are also vital in preventing non-consensual sexual activity, while high-efficiency birth control techniques, particularly when combined with a condom, can prevent undesired births.

The warning comes after Thailand’s Department of Disease Control (DDC) recently issued data on the country’s HIV situation, which revealed that 9,230 new HIV-positive cases were found in 2022.

The majority of those were between the ages of 15 and 24, with only 22.4% obtaining hospital care.

Other sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) detected that year were 14,534 instances of syphilis and gonorrhoea. According to the report, just 80% of couples wore condoms during intercourse.

Because wearing condoms helps prevent both unwanted pregnancies and STDs, the government encourages people to get them for free from any health service unit.

According to the DDC, they can also acquire free HIV testing as part of the National Health Security Service by utilising the PaoTang smartphone application.

HIV Infections in Thailand

HIV (Human Immunodeficiency Virus) among teens is a major public health concern in Thailand, as it is in many other countries throughout the world. Thailand has made significant progress in combating the HIV epidemic throughout the years, but obstacles remain. Here are some important facts concerning HIV in Thailand:

Prevalence:

HIV/AIDS has historically been a major public health concern in Thailand, with a relatively high prevalence. In the late 1980s and early 1990s, the epidemic was very severe.

Government Reaction:

The Thai government has developed a number of HIV/AIDS-related policies and initiatives. Prevention programmes, better availability to antiretroviral medication (ART), and educational efforts are among them.

Attempts at Prevention:

Thailand has undertaken a number of HIV prevention methods, including condom distribution, harm reduction for injecting drug users, and the promotion of safe sex practises. These approaches have helped to reduce the number of new HIV infections.

Treatment and Support:

Thailand has made strides in providing persons living with HIV infection with access to antiretroviral medication (ART). Access to therapy has increased the life expectancy and quality of life for many HIV patients.

Challenges:

Despite improvements, Thailand continues to encounter hurdles in its HIV-fighting efforts. HIV stigma and prejudice can dissuade people from being tested and seeking treatment. Access to services may still be a barrier for vulnerable populations such as sex workers, men who have sex with men, and persons who inject drugs.

Important Populations:

HIV is more prevalent in certain critical populations in Thailand, such as sex workers, men who have sex with males, transgender people, and drug users. To manage the epidemic, tailored treatments for different populations are required.

Collaboration on a Global Scale:

To combat HIV/AIDS, Thailand has worked with international organisations such as UNAIDS, the World Health Organisation (WHO), and non-governmental organisations (NGOs).

HIV public health activities and methods are evolving, and data on the virus’s prevalence and impact may have changed. To receive the most up-to-date information on HIV in Thailand, it is best to consult local health authorities, international organisations, and new research and papers on the subject.

Thailand’s Health Department promotes awareness among teenagers and adolescents through its Line OA Teen Club. This includes education on sexual health, life skills, STI prevention, and pregnancy prevention. Teenagers can receive counseling, learn about sexual education, and develop life skills by adding the Line OA Teen Club account (@Teenclub).