Dr. Songyos Khamchai, Head of Disease Control at the Chiang Mai Provincial Public Health Office, has expressed concerns over the current HIV and sexually transmitted disease (STDs) situation in Chiang Mai. In the first six months of 2025, 365 cases of syphilis were reported with a rate of 25.49 per 100,000 people, a figure considered alarmingly high. Some of these individuals may also be infected with HIV but are not yet showing symptoms. Additionally, 338 new HIV cases were reported, bringing the total number of HIV patients in Chiang Mai to 22,070.
The rise in STDs in Chiang Mai is most widespread among teenagers, students, and working-age adults between 25 and 49 years old. The primary cause is unprotected sex, particularly the failure to use condoms.
Dr. Songyos emphasised that Chiang Mai Public Health continues to promote safe sexual behaviour, urging the public to avoid promiscuity and always use condoms during sexual activity. During Pride Month, he especially encouraged members of the LGBTQ+ community, who are considered a high-risk group, to use condoms, especially when engaging in sex with new or unknown partners.
Although effective HIV prevention options are available, such as PrEP (pre-exposure prophylaxis) and PEP (post-exposure prophylaxis), both are accessible at hospitals and through some private organisations. In the end, the correct and consistent use of condoms remains the most effective way to prevent HIV and other STDs.
