Temporary Easing of Lockdown Restrictions
The new guidelines issued by the Lao PM are temporary measures to prevent and control the virus and will begin from 4th to 17th May 2020.
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Health
Lockdown Eased, But Thailand Remains Closed To Foreign Tourists For Another Month
Though Thailand will allow some businesses to reopen from Friday (May 1), the country is still not ready to welcome foreign tourists, say government officials.
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Govt Discusses Post-Lockdown Measures / 29.4.2020
The government looks set to keep some strict measures in place as part of its bold policy to control the spread of COVID-19
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60 Fires In First Three Months Of Year
A total of 60 fires were reported around the country in the first three months of this year
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Authorities Urge Public To Get Ready Against Deadly Dengue
Health authorities are calling on the public to make preparations against the dengue virus this rainy season after one person has already died from the disease this year.
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Schools Expected To Reopen On May 11 Under Close Supervision
State and private kindergartens, primary and secondary schools and tertiary education institutions along with sporting activities, are expected to reopen on May 11 amid strict measures.
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Easing of Lockdown Restrictions Proposed
Six restrictions under the current lockdown could be eased after May 3 if there are no more confirmed case of coronavirus by that date, authorities have suggested.
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Ministry Says Parents Of Students In Private Schools Must Pay 50 Percent Of Fees
Private schools must pay 50 percent of the salaries of teachers, while parents must pay 50 percent of the fees for students for the month of April.
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Ban On Inbound Flights Continues: Thailand
The Civil Aviation Authority of Thailand (CAAT) is planning to extend its inbound flight ban for another 15 days
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Vientiane Cuts Waste Disposal Fee By 50 Percent
The waste disposal fee for residents, entrepreneurs and organisations in Vientiane has been reduced by 50 percent from April to June this year.
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Lao Health System Continues To Offer Immunization Services Despite COVID-19 Pandemic
Despite the arrival of COVID-19 in the Lao PDR last month, the health system here is continuing to provide essential health services – and in particular immunization
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PM Extends Restrictions For Virus Control, Some Eased To Minimise Economic Impact
The prime minister told the cabinet to remain tough in enforcing his Order No. 6 which imposes tougher prevention and control measures, and measures imposed by the relevant authorities.
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Factories, Businesses To Operate Amid Lockdown
Factories and businesses at the heart of the Lao economy will be able to resume their operations amid the extended lockdown ordered by the Prime Minister to combat the Covid-19 pandemic.
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Lao Tourism Income To Decline At Least US$350 Million In 2020
Laos is expecting tourism revenues to fall by at least US$350 million (3,111 billion kip) this year with the sector to cut 2 percent off the nation’s gross domestic product (GDP).
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No New Cases For 10 Days / 22.4.2020
No new cases of infection have been reported for 10 straight days
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Covid-19: Cleaner Air, Well Not In Laos
The COVID-19 movement restrictions have had one good side-effect: the air is cleaner and clearer everywhere. Everywhere? Not quite!
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Lao Airlines To Resume All Domestic Flights Next Month
Lao Airlines will resume flights on all domestic routes next month after operations were suspended during April 1-19 to help prevent the spread of Covid-19.
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Thailand Extends Foreigners’ Visas As Coronavirus Cases Slow
Thailand’s cabinet approved a second automatic visa extension for foreigners for three more months until July 31
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Local Authorities Urged To Enforce PM’s Order On Lockdown
Local authorities must ensure that Prime Minister’s Order No. 6, aimed at preventing the spread of Covid-19 by putting a lockdown in place, is enforced
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Taskforce Confirm No New Cases For 7 days / 19.4.2020
No new COVID-19 cases have been recorded in Laos for seven consecutive days with the total number of confirmed infections unchanged at 19 as of Sunday
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Schools, Centres Of Higher Education To Remain Closed
The Ministry of Education and Sports announced on Friday that all schools and tertiary centres of education will remain closed from April 22 to May 3 as part of government efforts to curb the Covid-19 outbreak.
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No New Cases For Four Days / 16.4.2020
A second patient hospitalised with Covid-19 was discharged and allowed to go home
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Lockdown Extended Until 03 May !
Prime Minister Thongloun Sisoulith has extended the current lockdown for Laos until 3 May 2020.
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Vientiane Focuses On Food Security Amid Covid-19 Pandemic
Authorities in Vientiane have taken steps to ensure food security amid the challenges posed by the Covid-19 outbreak, which has resulted in problems in transporting agricultural products from other provinces.
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One Covid-19 Patient Recovers, No New Cases Reported / 14.4.2020
A patient who contracted Covid-19 and has been undergoing treatment in hospital has tested negative for the first time, and no new infections have been reported
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Investors Call The Government Considers Import And Export Goods Via Local Checkpoints
Businesses engaged in foreign trade have asked the government to allow imports and exports via local and traditional border checkpoints
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Another Covid-19 Case Confirmed, Bringing Total To 19 / 12.4.2020
Another person in Vientiane has tested positive for Covid-19 after sharing a room with a friend who had contracted the virus, bringing the total number of confirmed cases to 19.
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Need Support? We Are Still Here For You!
As all J&C teams have switched to “home office”, we assure you that J&C Group continues to support you, your family, and/or your company.
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Avoid Parties As COVID-19 Cases Hit 18 / 11.4.2020
Taskforce urges members of the public to avoid parties during the Lao New Year break
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Lao Economic Growth Shrinks Amid Drop in Production, Spending
Economic growth in Laos has slowed as production and consumer spending drop amid fears of a spread of the coronavirus, with growth expected to shrink by about 50 percent
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No New Covid-19 Cases / 10.4.2020
A total of 82 people who were displaying Covid-19 symptoms and had close contact with patients all tested negative for the coronavirus yesterday, meaning that there are no new cases
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Xaysettha Revokes Ruling On Temporary Village Membership Fee
Authorities in Xaysettha district, Vientiane, have revoked a notice they had issued following complaints from local residents about the plan to charge a fee for the provision of a temporary certificate of village membership.
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UN In Laos Calls For End To Discrimination Against Virus Affected People
The United Nations in Laos has called for an end to discrimination against people who are affected by COVID-19 as such actions violate human rights.
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Almost 90 Killed Nationwide In Road Accidents In March
Nearly 90 people were killed in road accidents across the country during March
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Dining Out With Friend Leads To 16th Confirmed Virus Case / 9.4.2020
A Lao student in Vientiane was confirmed as the nation’s sixteenth COVID-19 case on Thursday following eating and drinking with a friend last month who was later found to be infected.
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No Public Access To Pimai Water Traditions At Temples
The pouring of purified perfumed water to ceremonially shower Buddha images in temples by members of the public would typically occur across the country during next week’s Lao New Year period.
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Another Student Confirmed With COVID-19 / 8.4.2020
A 20-year-old Lao female student who returned home from England has been confirmed as infected with COVID-19, taking the total number of cases to 15 nationally
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Laos Changes Conditions For Covid-19 Tests
The National Taskforce Committee for COVID-19 Prevention and Control has eased the conditions for free Covid-19 tests in order to reduce the threat posed by the Coronavirus to Laos.
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Two New Cases Carry Covid-19 Infections To 14 / 7.4.2020
Two more Covid-19 cases have been confirmed in Laos with the total number rising to 14, after additional tests returned positive
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Looking For Passengers On TG574, 23rd March 2020
The Lao authorities have asked that those who have traveled on flight TG574 Bangkok-Vientiane on the 23/03/2020 to come in and get tested.
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Lao Woman Studying In The UK Infected By Coronavirus / 6.4.2020
A 20-year-old woman from Vientiane has been infected by the Coronavirus, taking the total number of infections in Laos to 12
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Laos Confirms New Covid-19 Case
A foreign national working in Laos has tested positive for Covid-19, taking the total number of cases in the country to 11.
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Laos Follows WHO Guidelines Strictly To Prevent COVID-19
Laos has strictly implemented measures by following the guidelines of the World Health Organization (WHO) on prevention of the COVID-19 pandemic.
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Capital’s Air Quality Readings Improve As Smoke Clears
Air quality tests in Vientiane are returning safer readings as recorded levels of particulate matter (PM) 2.5 pollution begin to reduce toward acceptable standards in the capital
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Access, Equity Reasons For Private Health Facilities Closure
Shut down of private hospital and clinics nationwide to ensure public has maximum possible equity in access to free and high standard quality COVID-19 testing and treatment facilities
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No Covid-19 Cases For Two Consecutive Days
The National Taskforce Committee for Covid-19 Prevention and Control on Friday reported there had been no more reported cases of Covid-19 for two days, with the total number of confirmed cases remaining stable at 10.
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Govt Pledges Food Security During Outbreak Fears
There are sufficient imported sources of consumer goods to maintain food security Lao authorities have said.
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Laos Confirms New Covid-19 Case, Bringing Total To 10
A female Vientiane resident, 21, was confirmed today as being infected with coronavirus, bringing the total infections to 10 people.
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Laos Launches Official Website On Covid-19 Situation
The Ministry of Post and Telecommunications in cooperation with a Lao ICT company recently launched an official website www.covid19.gov.la
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Laos Allows Shuttle Flights To Evacuate Foreigners
Shuttle flights will be allowed for countries to pick up their citizens from Laos
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Vientiane Bus Suspends All Services
Vientiane State Bus Enterprise (VSBE) suspended its services on every route in Vientiane and to other provinces yesterday following the cancellation of international routes on March 23.
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Chinese Medical Team Arrives In Laos To Help Fight COVID-19
A team of Chinese medical experts, along with medical materials, arrived in Lao capital Vientiane by a chartered plane Sunday morning to assist Laos to fight the COVID-19 pandemic.
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Lockdown ! Govt Toughens Virus Prevention Measures
The government yesterday announced to close all international checkpoints and prohibit public movement for non-essential activities for almost three weeks to control the coronavirus pandemic as fears of outbreak escalate.
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COVID-19 In Asean: 5,000 Cases Regionally, Completed Case Mortality Hits 21%
As of 01:20 GMT March 27 there was 5,010 active cases of COVID-19 throughout the 10 Asean member countries, an increase of 508 on the day prior.
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Foreigners Can Apply For Lao Stay Extensions
Foreigners who cannot leave Laos at this time, because all borders are closed to prevent the spread of Covid-19, can request extensions on their stay.
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Three New Virus Infections Confirmed Bringing Total To Six
Authorities confirmed yesterday that three more people were infected with coronavirus (Covid-19) bringing total infections to six.
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Laos Confirms Third Covid-19 Case
Laos has confirmed another Covid-19 case, bringing the total number of dangerous infections nationwide to three.
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Thailand Closes Borders To Foreigners
Thailand has effectively closed its doors for non-resident foreigners wanting to enter the country under the state of emergency that comes into force on Thursday (March 26).
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First Covid-19 Cases In Laos Confirmed
A 36-year-old female tour guide from Vientiane Capital and a 28-year-old male hotel employee from Vientiane Capital have tested positive for Covid-19.
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Free Testing For Medically Screened COVID-19 Cases
The public, including foreign nationals in the country, suspected by medical personnel of carrying COVID-19 will be tested free of charge
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COVID 19 is Covered by All Our Health Insurance Plans !
The good news is that J&C has got you covered. All health insurance plans offered by J&C Insurance are covering COVID-19 !!!
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Laos Adopts Stimulus Package To Minimise Virus Economic Impact
The Lao government has adopted in principle an economic stimulus package to minimise the impact caused by the ongoing outbreak of the coronavirus (COVID-19)
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Sharp Increase in Covid-19 Cases in Thai Provinces ‘Cause For Concern’
Medical officials are greatly concerned about the new coronavirus (Covid-19) spreading to other Thai provinces.
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Malls And Markets in Bangkok Ordered to Close Until 12 April
Shopping malls and markets in Bangkok have been ordered to close from Sunday 22 March.
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Thai-Lao Border Between Nongkhai and Vientiane Is Closing Tonight
The border crossing between Nongkhai and Vientiane will be closed to all personal and vehicle traffic at 10pm, March 22
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Costs and Concerns as Asean Races to Deliver COVID-19 Testing
As the world reels from the outbreak of COVID-19 Asean nations are scrambling to provide testing for millions of concerned citizens and their families.
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Health Certificates Required Of All Visitors: Thailand
The Thai government will extend the requirement of medical certificates and health insurance from Sunday to cover all visitors to the country regardless of nationalities to curb the spread of the coronavirus.
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Foreign Diplomats Briefed On COVID-19 Situation, Preventive Measures
The government on Thursday briefed diplomats and representatives of international organisations about the current situation in Laos, along with existing and proposed measures, by authorities to prevent the outbreak of COVID-19 in the country.
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Authorities Confirm Laos-Vietnam Border Crossing Open
Authorities have confirmed that the Lao Bao-Dansavan International Checkpoint between Vietnam and Laos in Savannakhet province is open dismissing false reports of its closure on March 19 as fake news.
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China’s COVID-19 Testing Kits Arrive In Laos
A shipment of COVID-19 testing kits provided by the Chinese government arrived on Wednesday.
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Lao Govt Suspends Tourist Visas, Closes All Education Institutions
The government has suspended the issuance of visas for foreign tourists for 30 days and suspended all levels of education in the latest move to prevent coronavirus (Covid-19)
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Officials Forecast 400,000 COVID-19 Cases In Thailand
Health officials in Thailand have forecast that at least 400,000 people may be diagnosed with the coronavirus, COVID-19, by the end of next year.
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Lao Consumers Will Not Face Serious Food Shortages: Senior Economist
Lao consumers will not face serious food shortages as in other countries if the international supply chain is disrupted due to the Covid-19 pandemic, according to a senior economist.
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Covid-19: Laos Ready For Potential Outbreak, Says PM
In an effort to prevent possible outbreak of the disease in the country, the Lao government has taken a number of preventive measures
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Preschool And Kindergarten Ordered To Close
Laos has ordered the temporary closure of preschools and kindergartens across the country in the wake of the ongoing outbreak of coronavirus in many countries.
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Northern Laos Province Closes 10 Border Crossings With Vietnam
Authorities in northern Laos’ Huaphan province on Sunday (March 15) called for the temporary closure of 10 traditional border crossings with Vietnam
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App Tracks Real-Time The Spread Of The Covid-19 Virus In Thailand
A Thai team known as 5Lab that develops websites, software and applications has introduced a site devoted to tracking the spread of the Covid-19 virus in Thailand.
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Laos Cancels Public Events Including Lao New Year Celebrations on COVID-19 Fears
Authorities in Laos are urging the public to suspend or postpone all “unnecessary” social events including weddings and Lao New Year celebrations in an attempt to prevent the spread of COVID-19.
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Idle Factories, Empty Trade Zone Highlight Coronavirus Impact on Southeast Asia
China-dependent countries feel fallout in tourism, manufacturing, and exports.
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Economic Recession Possible In Laos Due To Covid-19
The first sector hit hard by the situation is tourism, followed by investment and trade.
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No virus: Lao Diagnostic System Reliable, Health Official Says
Multiple diagnostic tests conducted in Laos are standardised and can reliably detect the coronavirus, a senior health official has said.
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Road Accidents Kill 122 In January
Police attributes most of the incidents to speeding and drunk driving.
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A Silent Epidemic? Experts Fear the Coronavirus Is Spreading Undetected in Southeast Asia
It’s not that these countries are getting lucky, says Marc Lipsitch, director of Harvard’s Center for Communicable Disease Dynamics, and one of the study’s authors. “They’re missing infections.”
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Complications From Diabetes An Increasing Concern
Diabetic foot ulcers are the leading cause of non-traumatic amputations in people with diabetes and complications from the condition are becoming widespread in Laos
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Ministry Monitoring Air Quality As Pollution Levels Rise
The Ministry of Natural Resources and Environment has been keeping a close eye on the air quality in Vientiane amid the widespread illegal burning of garbage, rice fields and scrubland, which has created a thick haze over the city.
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“Wear Face Masks Or Be Kicked Out Of Thailand” Says Thai Health Minister
Any ‘farangs’ who do not wear face masks should be kicked out of the country, that’s according to Thailand’s health minister, Anutin Charnvirakul.
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Cancer Insurance – First In Laos !
J&C Insurance is proud to announce the launch of a unique product for the first time in Laos: APA Cancer Insurance! It is the perfect solution to secure your loved ones and yourself against cancer.
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Private Schools In Laos Close On Fears Of Coronavirus
Several private schools, most in Laos’ capital Vientiane, have closed down as fears over the spread of the Wuhan coronavirus (nCoV)
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Health Ministry Rolls Out Virus Prevention Measures
Health authorities are putting in place stringent screening measures at border crossings in response to the new coronavirus outbreak
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China Confirms Coronavirus Transmitted by Humans
The outbreak has put other countries on alert as millions of Chinese travel for Lunar New Year. Authorities in Thailand and in Japan have already identified at least three cases, all involving recent travel from China.
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Study Says Tobacco Use And Air Pollution Exposure Greatly Increase Odds Of Contracting Tuberculosis
A new study based in the country of Laos PDR found that tobacco use and air pollution exposure can greatly increase the odds of a person contracting tuberculosis.
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Over 4,000 Runners Competing In First-Ever Vientiane International Marathon
The nation’s largest-ever field of more than 4,000 domestic and foreign runners is expected to tackle the inaugural Vientiane International Marathon through the capital’s streets on December 8.
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Dental Clinics In Vientiane
The quality of dental care has significantly improved in Vientiane. The following clinics have ..
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Tourism, Poverty and the Luang Prabang Half Marathon
The Luang Prabang Half Marathon offers the general population to get healthier and train, while at the same time it donates the money collected from the registration to the Lao Friends Hospital for Children (LFHC).
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Fitness Gyms in Vientiane
If you’re thinking about getting on that workout grind, congratulations—from taking care of your mental health to getting better sleep to keeping your heart healthy, there are a ton of reasons to make working out a part of your life.
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Dual Pricing: Retirees And Expats May Be Charged More At Thai Govt Hospitals
Foreigners who receive medical treatment or services at a government hospital in Thailand may pay significantly more than Thai nationals and those from neighbouring countries under new guidelines.
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Avoid Black Henna Tattoos Or Risk Permanent Scaring
Black henna tattoos are a popular holiday ‘souvenir sought after by many visitors to Asean’s holiday resort locations due to their allegedly non-permanent nature and the mistaken belief that they are safe, even for children.
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Severe Form Of Dengue Strikes As Cases Continue To Mount
Laos is facing an outbreak of the most virulent form of the dengue virus this rainy season.
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Health Authorities Redoubling Efforts To Limit Dengue Fever Outbreak
Health officials and medical staff at hospitals across the country, including the capital, are endeavouring to combat the increasing number of dengue fever cases this year.
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Laos Reports First Cases Of African Swine Fever
Laos has reported to the World Organization for Animal Health (OIE) a series of seven cases of African swine fever (ASF) in the southern portion of the Southeast Asian country.
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Thai Medical Council Warns Men Against DIY Penis Enlargements
Thai men have been told in no uncertain terms to stop trying to enlarge their penises.
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Vets in Vientiane
J&C Services is all about making life easier so to do that we have compiled a list of what we think are some of the best vets in Vientiane
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Thailand To Ban Three Kinds Of Plastic By End Of This Year
By the end of 2019 Thailand will be free from three types of plastic – microbeads, cap seals and oxo-degradable plastics.
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Over 37 People Killed In New Year Road Accidents
37 people were killed during a five day period that included the official three-day Lao New Year holiday
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UN Finally Tells The Truth About Laos
UN Special Rapporteur on poverty and human rights plans to refer the reclusive authoritarian nation to the UN Human Rights Council for a host of abuses and failings
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People Breathe Easier After Rain In Vientiane
Air pollution levels of particulate matter that are 2.5 micrometres and less in diameter (PM2.5) have returned to safe levels after a few days of rainfall.
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Refill Your Water Bottle For Free At J&C Services !
Refillmybottle provides online maps that identify where refillers can walk in and fill up their bottle with clean drinkable water for free.
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Pollution At Hazardous Levels In Vientiane
Source: Vientiane Times Wildfires in Laos and neighbouring countries are causing dangerous levels of air pollution in many regions of
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Fire Warning As Temperatures Soar
Authorities are warning people to exercise caution when lighting fires outdoors, as well as highlighting the dangers posed by household electrical faults.
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Laos Suspends Pig, Pork Imports From China, Vietnam
The Lao government has announced the temporary suspension of pig and pork product imports from China and Vietnam after African Swine Fever outbreaks in these countries.
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Governmental Decree Stipulates Safe & Healthy Workplaces
Workers have the legal right to require their employers to ensure occupational health and safety, a new governmental decree stipulates.
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Ministry Keeping Close Check On Air Quality
The Ministry of Natural Resources and Environment has been keeping a close eye on air quality in Vientiane as Bangkok suffers high pollution levels.
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Construction Officially Underway For New Mahosot Hospital
Construction of buildings to house the new Mahosot Hospital in Vientiane started on Friday to replace the existing century-old facility as part of efforts to overhaul the country’s health services.
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Lao Medics Partner With Thai University To Battle Bile Duct Cancer
A new project is underway at the Lao Tropical and Public Health Institute to improve the treatment of bile duct cancer in Laos and reduce the number of fatalities.
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The Reason Why Princess Beatrice Flew To Laos
Princess Beatrice spent a week in South East Asia following the royal wedding for a very special cause – to run a half marathon supporting a children’s hospital.
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Mother and Child Hospital Claims Success With IVF Treatment
Mother and Child Hospital (MCH) in Vientiane has presented its successful results of in vitro fertilisation (IVF) treatments using intracytoplasmic sperm Injection (ICSI) for women wanting to fall pregnant.
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Malaria’s Ticking Time Bomb
Scientists are racing to stamp out the disease in southeast Asia before unstoppable strains spread.
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HIV Vaccine Shows Promise In Human Trial
An HIV vaccine that has the potential to protect people around the world from the virus has shown promising results.
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1,089 Cases Of Dengue Fever Reported So Far This Year, 2 Killed
A total of 1,089 cases of dengue fever have been reported so far this year in Laos, with two deaths, local daily Vientiane Times reported on Monday.
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WHO Awards Laos For Efforts To Curb Smoking
The Ministry of Health will continue to work with international partners to reduce tobacco smoking in Laos even though there has been some success in this field.
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New Kasemrad International Hospital To Begin Construction
Work has begun on the construction of the new Kasemrad International Hospital Vientiane (KIH Vientiane), the largest private hospital in Laos, with an expected completion date in two years’ time.
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Over 200 People Killed In Road Accidents So Far This Year
A total of 212 people died in road accidents around the country from January to February this year, with many of the crashes attributed to speeding and drunk driving.
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Australian Embassy Medical Clinic In Vientiane To Close Soon
After a comprehensive global review of all of its medical clinics, the Australian Government has decided to close the Australian Embassy Medical Clinic in Vientiane, in addition to the clinics in Phnom Penh and Yangon.
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Bus Accident In Vientiane Province Kills Seven, Injures 20
Seven people were killed and 20 passengers were seriously injured on Sunday night when a bus rolled down a steep hillside after its brakes failed while travelling from Phongsaly province to Vientiane.
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Lao-Thai Venture To Build Private Hospital In Vientiane
Laos will soon have a privately-owned hospital of international standard in a residential area of Vientiane where locals and expats can access a full range of medical services.
The luxury hospital will be housed in …
Drug Production In Laos and Myanmar Still A Major Threat
In December 2017, the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC) released its latest report on opium production in Myanmar and, at face value, the news was good.
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Northern Farms Turn To Ice As Frost Hits
The northern provinces are experiencing frosty weather and farmers and local residents are struggling to cope with daily life as they shiver in the cold.
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917 People Killed in Road Accidents
Traffic Police Department, Ministry of Public Security has reported that 917 lives have been killed in road accidents nationwide over the past 11 months with Vientiane Capital sharing the highest number of road accident casualties.
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J&C Elite Care Health and Life Insurance
There’s something new in Laos. Something unique. Something exciting. It’s good for your health. It’s good for your peace of mind. It could save your life. And it’s brought to you by people who care about all these things: J&C Services – Your Insurance Experts.
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All Patient Records Must Be In Lao, Foreign Clinics Warned
All medical documents for patients at private clinics and hospitals operated or owned by foreigners in Vientiane must be written in Lao to protect the rights and benefits of patients.
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Laos, China Break Ground For Modernised Mahosot Hospital
President Bounnhang Vorachit and his visiting Chinese counterpart Xi Jinping yesterday broke ground for the start of construction of modern facilities to replace Vientiane’s Mahosot Hospital.
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Asia Is Unprepared For The Next Flu Outbreak
Epidemics and outbreaks happen very quickly – anywhere and without warning. While advancements in science have equipped us to better handle the flu, Asia’s continued growth in recent years and lack of sufficient infrastructure have made it difficult to handle large scale outbreaks, cope with hospitalisation numbers and contain transmission between individuals. These factors have made it easier for viruses to spread within local communities and across the region, putting everyone at risk.
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196 Clinics Face Closure Due to Failure to Comply with Laws
The Ministry of Health has ordered closure of one clinic in Vientiane and refused to extent licenses for other 195 clinics nationwide due to their failure to comply with applicable laws.
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‘Super Malaria’ Spreads Across Southeast Asia, Raising Alarm
A form of malaria dubbed, “super malaria,” because of its resistance to standard treatment, has spread to Southeast Asia for the first time creating an alarming global threat.
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New Visa Rules For Medical Tourists In Thailand
The Thai Ministry of Interior has approved 90-day visas for medical tourists from Laos, Cambodia, China, Myanmar, and Vietnam.
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Over 5,000 Infected With Dengue Virus
Over 5,000 people have been infected with dengue virus, with capital Vientiane hard hit with one death, Lao Ministry of Health has reported.
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Laos: Decades After America’s ‘Secret War’, Unexploded Bombs Still Hinder Development
MORE than four decades after the last bomb fell from the skies above the remote and landlocked Southeast Asian nation of Laos, its countryside remains littered with deadly remnants from a conflict which long-ago faded into distant memory for many in the West.
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Ministry To Close Foreign Clinics
The Healthcare Department of the Ministry of Health will order the closure of foreign-owned clinics when their professional Lao medical licences expire this year.
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Health Authorities Concerned Over High Dengue Fever Levels
Year-to-date dengue fever infections have increased from 1,760 up to May 31 to 3,000 cases until June 30, along with five deaths being recorded in the country.
Authorities are particularly concerned that dengue has been recorded in the capital at a higher rate than other provinces in the country.
Thai Doctor Fights Against Carcinogenic Raw Fish Dish That Killed His Parents
Koi pla, raw fish ground with spices and lime, is thought to kill up to 20,000 people in Thailand every year.
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J&C Services Launches Ground-Breaking Health & Life Insurance
J&C Services together with Lane Xang Assurance (LAP) just launched a new groundbreaking Health & Life Insurance, called J&C Elite Care. “It’s the first health & life insurance product with a comprehensive cover up to US$ 100’000 which is available for Lao citizens and Expats living in Laos” says Mr. Stephan Aeschbach, owner of J&C Services.
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Severe Form Of Dengue Fever Surfaces In Vientiane
Health authorities say Laos still faces challenges in preventing dengue fever this year, especially with the emergence of dengue hemorrhagic fever. Dengue hemorrhagic fever is more severe and life-threatening than other forms of dengue, all of which are spread by the Aedesaegypti mosquito.
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‘Wombs For Rent’ Business Flourishes In Laos
Dozens of fertility clinics have mushroomed in land-locked Laos after scandals over commercial surrogacy have spurred wealthier southeast Asian neighbours to ban the controversial procedure since 2015.
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Vientiane Reports 171 Dengue Fever Cases
Some 171 dengue fever cases, including 69 female victims, have been reported in Vientiane Capital so far this year.
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Are Superbugs Developing In Southeast Asia?
Source: William Russell Superbugs may be on the rise, but by taking the right steps you and your family can
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Cigarettes Must Bear Health Warning Labels In Laos From May
As of May 1, all cigarette products of all brands, either domestically made or imported for commercial purposes in Laos, must be affixed with health warnings covering 75 percent of the packaging.
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Inspection Underway On Reported Import Of Human Sperm: Lao Officials
Health officials are investigating a report that human sperm has been imported into Laos
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Children To Receive Free Healthcare In 2017
Children will receive free healthcare treatment at government hospitals this year according to a new government policy aiming to reduce the rate of mortality of children under five.
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Laos Placed Among The Lowest Contraception Usage In Asia
Laos, Nepal and Myanmar are the countries which have the lowest number of contraceptive users in Asia, according to the latest United Nations’ figures.
All three countries have just over 50 percent contraception usage with Laos (53 percent) and Nepal and Myanmar (52 percent) each for ….
Antibiotics Resistance: What You Need To Know
Source: William Russell Many countries have strict rules governing the use of antibiotics. In the UK, Europe and US, they
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Around 3,300 TB-Related Deaths Reported Yearly in Laos
Around 3,300 tuberculosis (TB) related deaths have been reported each year in Laos, according to the World Health Organisation.
Lao PDR still has a high TB burden and is one of the countries with the highest prevalence of TB, with an incidence of 182 per 100,000, and a death rate of 53 per 100,000; every year, there are an estimated 3,300 TB related death …
Localised Thunderstorm Alert Issued Ahead Of Weekend
People across all parts of the country should be on alert for summer thunderstorms and pay close attention to weather forecasts as hot weather and storm risk intensifies.
A moderate high pressure system emanating from southern China will cover all parts of Laos and gusty westerly and easterly winds are set to prevail over the country, which are expected to cause outbreaks of summer thunderstorms from Saturday to ……
6,000 Children in Laos Die Due to Lack of Proper Nutrition
Source: KPL Approximately 6,000 children under five years of age in Laos reportedly die every year resulting from a lack
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Siren Confusion Tackled
Seven rescue teams in Vientiane Capital have been instructed to consistently use a single type of siren to indicate when a person is being rushed to a hospital in order to prevent confusion among other road users.
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Melioidosis: Thailand’s Unknown Deadly Disease
Thailand’s third most-deadly infectious disease kills 40 percent of those infected, but very few have ever heard of it. By the time Bunsri Mamak, 50, arrived at Sappasit Prasong Hospital in Ubon Ratchathani city in Thailand’s northeast, he was delirious and a very sick man. He had spent several weeks visiting local clinics and hospitals trying to find out what was wrong with him when he ….
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Reminder: Importation of E-Cigarettes and Refills Into Thailand Is Illegal
People should be careful about vaping in Thailand. While using e-cigs them selves are not illegal, it is illegal to import e-cigs and e-liquids and you could face up to 5 years in prison for possession and up to 10 year for production and sale and a fine of five times the value of the goods or both.
Apparently there is ‘NO’ law banning the ….
Health Alert: Elevated Dengue Fever Activity Reported In Laos
As of Jan. 25, at least 235 cases of dengue fever have been reported in Laos since the start of 2017. This compares to only 23 cases reported Jan. 1-30 in 2015 and 96 cases reported Jan. 1-29 in 2016.
Dengue fever outbreaks during 2017 have occurred countrywide, except in Bokeo, Houaphanh, Luang Namtha, Phongsaly, ……
Vientiane Dengue Fever Rates Higher This Year
Health authorities in the capital have admitted that the outbreak of dengue fever is higher this year compared to the same period in 2016.
From January 1-24 this year, 70 dengue fever infections have been recorded in Vientiane, while in the same period last year there were no reports of any outbreaks. The news comes with 12 out of 18 provinces in the country reporting dengue fever at alarming epidemic levels though …..
51 People Die In Two Weeks Of Accidents
Vientiane has again topped the list of road accidents around the country over a two week period, with 66 recorded accidents and nine fatalities.
A report from the Traffic Police Department of the Ministry of Public Security provided figures from December 29, 2016, to January 8, 2017.
In Vientiane, 66 accidents were recorded, 93 people were……
Bangkok Hospital Starts Offering Dengue Vaccine
Samitivej Sukhumvit Hospital in Bangkok has introduced the vaccine against four strains of the dengue virus, making it the first facility in Thailand to offer immunisation against the mosquito-borne disease.
Dr. On-umar Banpamai, an infectious diseases specialist at Samitivej Sukhumvit Hospital, said at a briefing the vaccine against the dengue virus had been studied and developed for decades. It has also been tested in ….
Officials Warn Consumers About Gift Basket Risks
The health authority has established a system for the inspection of expired goods mixed in markets in an effort to curb the growth in these products according to the regulations.
The sale of fake and expired goods mixed with other products is still a common occurrence in Vientiane, even though the health authorities carry out regular ….
HIV/AIDS Infections Increasing In Laos
The number of new Lao HIV-contracted cases annually is trending upwards because at risk groups are having unsafe sex and receiving treatment too late.
Currently, there are some 11,500 people living with HIV in Laos with another 1,000 new cases each year. According to the NCCA, risk groups include ….
Laos Joins Race Against The Clock To Overcome Antimicrobial Resistance
Laos and other countries around the world have pledged to take immediate action to combat the spread of antimicrobial resistance (AMR).
WHO Representative to Laos Dr Juliet Fleischl emphasised the urgency of the issue this week, saying “We are beginning to see cases of resistance to antibiotics of last resort being reported in many countries. If we do not address antimicrobial resistance now, doctors and nurses will be empty-handed against a growing number of ….
Poverty Reduction Slows
Poverty reduction has slowed a little but the government will strive to reduce the number of poor families from 6.56 percent in 2016 down to 6.09 percent by 2017, the government has told the National Assembly.
There are four main reasons for the slower rate of poverty reduction, Minister of Planning and Investment Dr Souphanh Keomixay told the ongoing ordinary session of parliament when he presented a …..
Motorbikes Involved In 95% Of Road Accidents In Laos
Motorbikes were involved in 95 percent of the accidents in Laos during Oct. 3-16， with 90 percent of those dying in accidents being male，according to Traffic Police Department under Lao Ministry of Public Security.
As many as 331 road accidents occurred across the country during the period，resulting in 38 fatalities. Meanwhile，49 others were …
First Two Zika-Infected Babies Born With Microcephaly: Thailand
Thailand has reported its first two cases of Zika-infected babies with microcephaly, or babies born with abnormally small heads, as health authorities urge pregnant women to avoid mosquito bites and unprotected sex to prevent infection.
Meanwhile, the US Centre for Disease Control and Prevention added another 11 countries to its list where pregnant women …
Vientiane Rescue Passes On Prized Award To The People Of Laos
Vientiane Rescue 1623, under the Foundation for Assisting Poor People of the Lao PDR, presented the Ramon Magsaysay Award 2016 to the Lao people, after receiving the award in Manila, the Philippines, last month.
A press conference was held at the Vientiane Center on Sunday to honour the recipients and officially hand over the …
Vientiane Rescue Prepares For Boat Racing Festival
Over 20 volunteers from Vientiane Rescue 1623 are performing drills to assist anyone in the water in preparation for this year’s boat racing festival in the capital next month.
Vat Chan Festival is the largest boat racing competition in Laos and takes place annually the day after Buddhist Lent ends. This year’s festival falls on October 17.
A senior officer with Vientiane Rescue 1623 under ….
Over 700 People Die In Eight Months Of Traffic Accidents
Over 700 people were killed in road accidents around the country over the eight months from January to August 2016.
The Traffic Police Department under the Ministry of Public Security reported that 3,746 accidents were recorded nationwide during this time, involving 714 fatalities. Some 5,935 people were ….
Unwanted Pregnancies Ranks As Top Issue Among Vientiane Youth
The problem of unwanted pregnancies is rated among the top issues at the Vientiane Youth Centre for Health and Development when it comes to evaluating the increased numbers of people who visit the centre to receive advice and treatment, a director confirmed recently
The most common reason for young people to visit is to consult on problems of unwanted pregnancies, with the second most common reason being …
No Zika Cases Detected In Laos
Health officials are keeping a close eye on the potential for Zika virus to spread to Laos after a number of cases have been reported in some ASEAN countries, including Singapore and neighbouring Thailand.
A health official in Vientiane told Vientiane Times on Thursday that so far this year Laos has yet to find any persons infected with Zika virus.
“But there is a risk of infection if ….
Volunteers Give Kiss Of Life As Laos Road Tolls Mount
“Look at me, stay with us,” the paramedics shout as a barely conscious motorcyclist is bundled into a volunteer ambulance in the Laotian capital Vientiane, where rampant drink driving brings nightly carnage to the roads.
It is a grim scene familiar the world over. But in Laos, an impoverished and ….
Hit-And-Run Crimes On The Rise
Over 20 hit-and-run cases in Vientiane so far this year and many people have been injured or killed as a result, according to the Vientiane Traffic Police Department under the Ministry of Public Security.
There have been 23 reported hit-and-run cases in Vientiane so far this year and police have made ….
“Ya Ice” Users Are On The Rise, Sources Say
Methamphetamine use is on the rise in the country due to the foreigners, including those from neighbouring countries, using the drug when they come to visit or work, according to the police.
Amphetamine-type stimulants (ATS) in Southeast Asia include drugs such as methamphetamine which is also known as “crystal meth” or just “ice” or “ya ice” in the region.
A police official from the Ministry of Public Security told Vientiane Times that …..
Vientiane Rescuers Win Magsaysay Award
Vientiane Rescue 1623, a humanitarian group formed by volunteers to save lives in the Lao capital, is among the six recipients of this year’s Ramon Magsaysay Award, regarded as Asia’s equivalent of the Nobel Prize.
Vientiane Rescue was set up in 2007 to provide first-aid services for free on roads in the Lao capital. Those behind it are a small team of students and ordinary people who began …..
Ministry, WHO Announce Outbreak Of Hepatitis A in Xieng Khuang
The Ministry of Health and the World Health Organisation in Laos jointly held a press conference last week to put an end to the rumours concerning the so-called “new mystery disease” that had been circulating on social media.
Many people received updates on Facebook concerning an unidentified illness that struck down about 60 people in Xieng Khuang province this week, causing widespread concern and speculation about this “new” disease.
Speaking at the press conference …..
Tobacco Companies To Display Graphic Health Warnings On Cigarette Packets
The government will soon require tobacco companies to display graphic health warnings on cigarette packets in the hope of reducing the number of deaths from smoking-related illnesses.
Tobacco companies will need to display these warnings relaying information on the dangers of smoking by October of this year.
Laos is still finding it difficult to implement health and legal policies to further reduce smoking in the country due to the …..
Dengue Fever Outbreak Claims Seven Lives
Seven people have died following a nationwide outbreak of dengue fever in the first six months of this year with Champassak province having the most cases.
From January 1 to June 10 this year more than 900 cases of dengue fever have been recorded around the country and from these seven people have reportedly died.
Champassak is taking the brunt of the outbreak with ….
Watch Out For Pink Eye In The Wet Season
At this time of year you may notice friends and family members with at least one pink eye. This isn’t a colourful contact lens, it’s Conjunctivitis, an eye infection that commonly occurs during the rainy season when bacteria thrives.
While both bacteria and viruses cause conjunctivitis, the Ophthalmology Centre in Vientiane has found that bacteria are almost always the cause of the cases it encounters.
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Zika Virus Alert In Udon Thani’s Sangkhom District
Udon Thani’s Sangkhom district has been declared off-limits especially to pregnant women after a resident of the district was quarantined in Taiwan after he was tested to be infected with Zika virus.
Health volunteers in all villages in Tambon Sang Nang Khao of Nong Khai’s Pone Pisai district were instructed to mount a campaign to …
HIV Infections On The Rise: Laos
The help of the media is being enlisted to strengthen the HIV/AIDS control campaign in the hope of reducing the number of new HIV infections.
The Centre for HIV/AIDS/STI (CHAS) is recording about 1,000 new infections each year. Even though the prevalence of HIV/AIDS in Laos is low, the number of people contracting HIV is on …
“An Ounce of Prevention is Worth a Pound of Cure”
Seeing this picture of someone from Vientiane on social media, I couldn’t help but think of this old saying. “An Ounce of Prevention is Worth a Pound of Cure”
Seeing all the unsafe thing that people do in this country makes me cringe.
As a former Medic it always made me sad to look at my patient on the stretcher and think of the ….
Banana Plantation Study In Laos Shows Negative Impacts
The negative impacts from banana plantations in Laos could be outweighing the benefits.
Despite the fact that banana plantation investments have created job opportunities for local people, reduced labour migration, contributed to social activities and improved infrastructure they are also having negative impacts on people’s health and the environment.
The findings were outlined in a study undertaken by the institute in cooperation with the National University of Laos …..
Vientiane Rescue: The Deadly Streets Of Laos
In the blinding glare of headlights, the traffic keeps coming. Motorbikes swerve dangerously, cars drive down the wrong side of the road – it’s Friday night in Vientiane, the busiest night of the week on the Laotian capital’s roads.
With the country’s economy booming, more people in Laos can afford motorbikes and cars than ever before – and they drive ….
Laos Reports Local Transmission Of Zika Virus
Laos is the latest country to report a local transmission of Zika virus, according to the World Health Organization, as fears mount over the mosquito-borne illness that has been linked to birth defects.
Asia has seen only a sprinkling of cases of the virus, but a surge in Latin America this year has pushed the UN health agency to declare Zika a global health emergency….
Thailand Braces For ‘Mega-Outbreak’ Of Dengue Fever
After a year which saw an explosion of Dengue fever infections, Thailand is bracing itself for an even worse 2016 with experts warning the number of infections may be on par with the 1987 mega-outbreak.
Thailand recorded some 140,000 cases of infection last year, the highest number since the 170,000 cases of the 1987 crisis.
The first line of defense against the epidemic that has swept through Southeast Asia sees teams of …..
Finally, A Licensed Dengue Vaccine
Despite its 60% efficacy, it may cut dengue burden substantially in many countries.
Dengue infections can have a severe and sudden onset, with bleeding tendencies and shock. Dengue is primarily an urban disease and large explosive epidemics with thousands of cases are common. Patients often require …..
Vientiane Rescue Teams Report On Road Carnage
Vientiane’s three rescue teams have reported on the number of road accidents they attended, and the fatality figures, from January 1 to December 29, 2015.
Combined figures showed that 270 people lost their lives in the capital for the year up to and including December 29. The three teams serving the public will …..
Yikes!!! A Snake In My Garden
Snakes are common in Laos and can be found anywhere. Where I come from in Canada we only have one snake and it is non-poisonous. So I find myself nervous when I see a snake in my garden.
Although many people are bitten, less than half are poisoned, even by a poisonous snake, and of these few …
New Superbug Spread To Laos Reflects Danger In Overuse Of Antibiotics
You’ve heard of “superbugs,” right – bacteria that have grown resistant to antibiotics due to widespread misuse of the drugs?
When someone was infected by one these bugs, there was always a last line of defense: harsh, aggressive antibiotics called polymyxins. But health experts warned that the day would come when that defense could fall, when we would enter a …..
5 Asian Countries Produce Majority Of Plastic In World’s Oceans
Of the circa eight million tons of plastic that reaches the Earth’s oceans on a daily basis, most is coming from five major Asian countries, all of which are developing and experiencing impressive economic growth. Yet all also have …..
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Venomous Predators: Giant Red Centipede
I’ve had them all in my garden: snakes, spiders, scorpions and other creepy crawleys… but recently, after 11 years in Laos, I came face to face with a new and truly scary species: the Giant Red Centipede (Scolopendra subspinipes).
When I saw it crawling around I was totally dismayed that such a creature might be living in my yard…. and actually I noticed it under my dining table (inside the house) while having dinner ! Yes, these guys are predators and are highly venomous … this one was probably looking for a big dinner himself ….
Laos Suffers Polio Case In Setback To Eradication Hopes
Laos has suffered a case of vaccine-derived polio, the World Health Organization said on Monday, in a new setback to hopes of eradicating the disease after the virus resurfaced in Ukraine and Mali.
The WHO said an 8-year-old boy died of …..
More People Die On Vientiane’s Roads
Four people were killed and six others sustained critical injuries in road accidents in the capital over the two-day period from September 9-10.
According to the Vientiane Traffic Police Department, a pick-up truck carrying 17 students overturned on Thursday morning in Donnoun village, Xaythany district, killing two passengers and seriously injuring six others. Other passengers were also injured in the accident. Police said the driver …..
Dogs and Thunderstorms
While we might welcome the rain after months of sweltering heat and humidity some of our furry companions find thunderstorms and lighting a highly traumatic event. With long periods of relative ‘calm’ weather these fears can carry over from year to year and ultimately develop into serious ….
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Diphtheria Breaks Out In Laos
In recent months diphtheria outbreaks have been reported in six places in Laos, in Vientiane and the provinces of Vientiane, Savannakhet, Khammuan, Huaphan and Luang Namtha. A total of 476 cases including six deaths were reported as of July 25, 2015.
Enhanced surveillance in the provinces is needed to stay abreast of the new cases; it is important that the local authorities and health workers participate in active case findings, facilitate contact tracing to……
Rescue Team Reports Increasing Road Accidents In Capital
Road accidents continue to kill and maim people across the country and Vientiane rescue teams are on standby 2 4 hours to help crash victims.
According to the rescue team of the Foundation for Assisting Poor People of the Lao PDR (Vientiane Rescue) the number of road accidents was continuing to increase with the team being called out more frequently attending up to 40 to 50 accidents each day. This compared with only five to 10 calls a day last year.
The rescue team reported over the six months period from January to June this year they attended 735 road accidents in Vientiane, during …..
Lao Rescue Teams Awarded 8 International Medals
Eight members of Lao rescue teams received one gold, one silver and six bronze medals from the International Disaster Medical Rally recently in Chiang Rai province, Thailand.
The rally from June 22-25 had rescue teams from 10 Asean countries competing to exercise their skills and experience in dealing with a number of mock emergency cases such as a building collapse, chemical leakage and water rescue.
Laos was represented by all three rescue teams currently serving the public in the capital, namely those from the Lao Red Cross, the Foundation for Assisting Poor People of Lao PDR (Vientiane Rescue) and …..
TB Drug Resistance On The Rise
The number of tuberculosis (TB) patients who have developed drug resistance has increased this year, posing serious concerns for health officials.
Setthathirath Hospital identified 20 patients as drug resistant when they came to the hospital for treatment this year.
“We have been seeing a gradual increase in the number of drug resistant TB patients in the last few years and we recorded more cases this …….
Mosquito Bites Blamed For Death Of Expat Volunteer Teaching In Laos
An east Lancashire man who was working in Laos has died after contracting a tropical disease believed to have been caused by mosquito bites.
HGV driver David Murray, also known as ‘Muzz’ to his friends, was three months into a year-long stay at a project aimed at teaching young orphans English when bites on his legs became infected.
The 39-year-old was taken to hospital by volunteers at the Sae Lao Project, in the village of Nathong, in Laos, but died after going …..