29 Sep 2015

HIV rates rising among Thai youth

UNICEF study shows infections are rising among people aged 15 to 24

While HIV infections are falling overall in Thailand, they are rising among young people aged between 15 and 24.

This is according to a study by UNICEF, entitled  "Situational Analysis of Young People at High Risk of HIV Exposure in Thailand."

In 1990s, HIV was the leading cause of death in Thailand but since then there has been a sharp decline, though it is still the fifth leading cause of death in the country.

The report suggests that because of Thailand's success at tackling HIV infections, many from the younger generation have become complacent, or see it as something that affects the older generation.

The report also suggests that social media has had a role to play. Before, grassroots activists could visit gay bars and clubs and hold events, talks, and forums.

These days, dating apps allow for people to meet in private. Activists and health experts have reported that they feel there is less of a physical community to reach out to.

Thailand