Baku:Khammouane Khammouane Province recorded 89 new HIV cases in the first nine months of 2026, with 9,300 people tested between January and September, according to provincial health authorities.

According to Lao News Agency, the figures were presented by Dr. Phongsakone Khamdaranikon, Deputy Head of the Administration Office of the Provincial Department of Health and coordinator of the AIDS Healthcare Foundation (AHF) project. This presentation occurred during a review meeting on October 22, focusing on HIV/AIDS and sexually transmitted infection (STI) prevention and control. Participants at the meeting evaluated the province's performance in 2026 and discussed plans for 2027.

Nationally, HIV prevalence among people aged 15-49 is estimated at 0.42%. Among key populations, prevalence is reported at 5% among men who have sex with men, 1% among female sex workers, and 0.6% among people who inject drugs. In 2026, men accounted for 61% of reported infections, while women represented 39%. Health officials have expressed concern over infections among school and university students, young people, and other population groups.

Khammouane's cumulative data from 2020 to 2026 shows that 77,308 people have undergone HIV testing, resulting in 544 positive cases and 67 deaths recorded during this period. The highest number of tests, 13,406, was conducted in 2025.

To enhance prevention and early detection, provincial authorities plan to expand mobile testing, increase targeted awareness campaigns among high-risk populations, and continue collaboration with relevant organizations and sectors in 2027. These measures aim to improve access to testing and prevention services throughout the province.