Myanmar
Health and HIV situation
In 2007, an estimated 240,000 people were living with HIV in Myanmar, with the national prevalence rate at 0.7% that year. Myanmar's eastern provinces remain the most affected by HIV.
National HIV programme and response
The National Strategic Plan on HIV/AIDS 2006-2010 is the first national response to the HIV/AIDS epidemic to use participation of all sectors, including Government departments, UN agencies, international NGOs and churches.
Migration patterns
Myanmar is a source country for migrant workers who are primarily employed in Malaysia and Thailand. It is estimated that 3,000,000 people are living and working overseas with at least half of them in Thailand.
HIV response for migrant populations: Gaps and opportunities
In Myanmar, there is a need to develop linguistically and culturally appropriate pre-departure HIV information and prevention programmes, as well as counseling and referral services for returning migrants. Despite funding challenges, HIV prevention, treatment, care and support services for migrant and mobile populations need to be expanded.