Health officials have raised alarms over a potential spike in risky sexual behavior during festivals, especially where alcohol is involved. The Ministry emphasized that unprotected sex remains a key driver of HIV infections, with many individuals unaware of their HIV status and thus unintentionally spreading the virus.
Data for 2025 indicates that 8,862 new HIV cases are anticipated, with approximately 60 percent resulting from male-to-male sexual contact. An estimated 10,217 people are projected to die from AIDS-related complications, while 568,565 individuals are currently living with HIV in Thailand.
To reduce the risk of transmission, the Ministry is promoting awareness of PEP (Post-Exposure Prophylaxis), a medication that can prevent infection if taken within 72 hours of exposure and continued for 28 days under medical supervision.
PEP is available at Ministry-run hospitals and through civil society organizations including Mplus (Chiang Mai, Chiang Rai, Phitsanulok, Nakhon Ratchasima), CareMet (Chiang Mai), SWING (Chonburi), and RSAT (Ubon Ratchathani and Songkhla).
