Bangkok: The Senate has noted an increase in HIV infections among the youth, as explained by the new Deputy Minister of Public Health, Mr. Chaichana Dejdecho. He revealed plans to collaborate with educational institutions to distribute condoms and educate students on safe sexual practices to curb the spread of the virus.
According to Thai News Agency, during a Senate meeting chaired by Gen. Kriangkrai Srirak, First Vice President of the Senate, Mr. Prinya Wongcherdkwan raised concerns regarding the rising trend of HIV infections in Thailand. He questioned the Ministry of Public Health about their preventive strategies and budget allocation for campaigns against sexually transmitted infections, as well as the treatment costs for both Thai and foreign HIV patients.
Mr. Chaichana admitted the increase in HIV infections, predominantly among young people. In response, the Ministry of Public Health is preparing to sign a memorandum of understanding with educational institutions to distribute condoms and educate students on proper sexual practices and HIV prevention. The Ministry aims to keep new infections under 1,000 cases per year and limit deaths to less than 4,000 annually.
He emphasized the need for proactive measures, stating that while overall infection rates have decreased, there is a noticeable rise among the youth. The Ministry plans to enhance cooperation with educational institutions, distribute condoms, and offer education on safe sex and HIV prevention. Additionally, there will be an increase in HIV testing points, and an MOU will be established with educational institutions and at-risk private companies. Bangkok, Chonburi, Khon Kaen, and Nakhon Ratchasima are identified as provinces with the highest infection rates, partly due to tourism.
The Deputy Minister detailed the annual budget for HIV patient care, amounting to 8.4 billion baht, with 7.7 billion baht sourced domestically and 788 million baht from foreign contributions. Of this budget, 6.2 billion baht is allocated for medication and 1.2 billion baht for prevention efforts. Among the 500,000 individuals receiving treatment, over 5,700 are foreigners, with treatment costs averaging 12,000 baht per person per year.