2023-12-01 04:54:30
Thailand Prepares for World AIDS Day 2023
As the world prepares to observe World AIDS Day on December 1, Dr. Thongchai Keerati Hatthayakorn, Acting Director-General of the Department of Disease Control, has announced plans to raise awareness about the importance of AIDS prevention and to support those living with HIV. This year, the campaign will focus on the concept of “Let Communities Lead,” emphasizing the participation of all sectors, especially youth, in raising awareness and driving change to end the AIDS epidemic.
The Department of Disease Control has identified youth as a crucial target group for HIV prevention efforts. In 2022, it is estimated that 9,230 new cases of HIV will emerge in Thailand, with 4,379 of those cases occurring in the 15-24 age group. Unsafe sex remains the leading cause of HIV transmission in this demographic, with condom usage rates alarmingly low. As a result, the Department is urging young people to make condom usage a norm with the slogan “Keep condoms handy, use them every time, with everyone, every channel.”
To support prevention efforts, the Department is working with network partners to ensure that all individuals have access to comprehensive prevention, testing, and care services. Free condoms are available at government health services and civil society organizations across the country, and HIV testing is free and accessible to all Thai citizens. Early detection and treatment are crucial in reducing the risk of illness and promoting overall health and well-being.
In preparation for World AIDS Day, the Department of Disease Control has partnered with the Youth Institute of Thailand and the Children and Youth Council of Thailand to spread campaign messages nationwide. The goal is to normalize condom usage and HIV testing, with an emphasis on using social media as a platform for awareness and outreach.
The Division of AIDS and Sexually Transmitted Diseases encourages individuals to follow its Safe Sex Story Facebook fan page for more information and to call the Department of Disease Control hotline at 1422 for assistance. As December 1 approaches, the Thai community is coming together to support the World AIDS Day campaign and promote a future free from the burden of HIV/AIDS.]
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