Shan host known as 04 loses job after illness in Chiang MaiCEFR A2
6 Feb 2026
Adapted from Prachatai, Global Voices • CC BY 3.0
Photo by Nopparuj Lamaikul, Unsplash
A Shan man who uses the name 04 worked as a host in Santitham, a budget red-light area in Chiang Mai. He is about twenty years old and has tattoos and bright orange hair.
He became ill with a sexually transmitted disease and lost his job before the New Year. He went to a hospital on January 3rd for treatment and follow-up care. A Chiang Mai resident paid his bill and the Empower Foundation later helped with some costs. His work permit has expired and he plans to return to Myanmar after treatment.
Difficult words
- host — person who works with customers at a venue
- red-light area — part of a city where sex work happens
- tattoo — pictures on the skin made with inktattoos
- treatment — medical care to make a person better
- follow-up care — additional medical check after first treatment
- work permit — official paper allowing a person to work
- expire — stop being valid or legal after a timeexpired
Tip: hover, focus or tap highlighted words in the article to see quick definitions while you read or listen.
Discussion questions
- Why do you think a resident paid his bill?
- How can a person get medical treatment if they have no money?
- Do you think he will find work in Myanmar? Why?
Related articles
Wastewater surveillance reveals antibiotic resistance across Indian cities
A study of sewage from four Indian cities found many antibiotic resistance genes and similar resistance patterns. The 2025 National Action Plan and experts promote wider wastewater surveillance, but critics warn of weak implementation.
Citizen science could help monitor health and the SDGs
A systematic review in Frontiers in Public Health finds citizen science can support monitoring many health and well‑being indicators in the UN Sustainable Development Goals and the WHO Triple Billion Targets. Authors are from IIASA and WHO.
RSV can cause long-term problems after hospital care
A study found that adults hospitalised with respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) often had lasting problems. Many patients experienced breathlessness and trouble with daily activities for months, and some stayed unwell for up to a year.
