Asia's AIDS - patient

Random screening indicates that HIV/AIDS infection is on the rise in Laos. 2006 screening in border areas shows more than 800 cases of new infections, while over 2,400 have entered hospitals to receive treatment, according to government statistics.

Laos' Anti-AIDS Commission says the situation in Laos is serious and fears the number of infection cases is higher, because the screening was voluntary and not mandatory.

Areas of high HIV/AIDS infection rates are along the borders with Thailand and Vietnam. The most affected provinces include Vientiane, Khammouane, Savannakhet, and Champassack. The infection rate in Vientiane is about 3.1 per cent, says an official with the Anti-AIDS Commission.