By the end of 2001, about 1 million injectors could be infected. Most new sufferers come from the ranks of drug users in the north and men who visit sex workers across the Thai border. Most cases reported to authorities have been sexually transmitted. 1,200 Half of all sex workers are infected with syphilis, meaning condoms aren't being used. About 25,000 drug-takers regularly share needles.
Observers fear an epidemic.
But the country has the poorest public awareness of HIV and AIDS among industrialized nations. 150 Infection rates are low, though cases are turning up even in the war-torn north. At present, AIDS is a four-letter word that is not discussed in many schools. The sex industry is blamed for most cases. Prevention campaigns focus on monogamy and fidelity.