In Cambodia, the widespread use of injections and intravenous drips has become a deeply ingrained part of healthcare, driven by patient demand and medical practice. However, this reliance has led to serious consequences, including a major HIV outbreak in the village of Roka, where over 270 people tested positive after receiving injections from an unlicensed doctor who reused needles.
The abbot of a Buddhist temple, Mom Hing, 82, contracted HIV from the village doctor, who was recently sentenced to 25 years in prison for manslaughter. Despite his infection, Mom Hing expressed no anger, saying, 'Let it be – life and death are normal things.' Lap Hoy, a 51-year-old grandmother, and four family members also became HIV-positive after visiting the same doctor for a cold and fever.
The outbreak has highlighted broader issues within Cambodia's healthcare system. A Western health worker with years of experience in the country noted that poor infection control is widespread among both licensed and unlicensed practitioners. 'I would say there are many more Rokas in Cambodia,' she said, referring to the potential for similar outbreaks.
Part of the problem is the cultural fascination with injections and IV drips. Patients often believe these treatments are essential, even for minor ailments. A man diagnosed with malaria was seen on a motorbike with an IV drip, explaining that it 'cools' his body and gives him energy. 'I'm poor, I don't have a car, so I have a drip on a motorbike,' he said.
The anonymous Western doctor added that IV drips are routinely given to nearly all hospital patients, often for spurious reasons. 'If you walk into a hospital, pretty close to every patient will have an IV,' she said, warning of the potential harm from unnecessary use. The Cambodian government has announced a crackdown on unlicensed health workers following the Roka outbreak, but experts argue that systemic changes in infection control are needed.
