São Paulo Records Local Transmission of Coronavirus

There are already nine confirmed cases of coronavirus in the country, and the government plans to open health posts at night and resume the Mais Medicos program

Brasília

Brazil’s Ministry of Health yesterday confirmed the first cases of local transmission of the coronavirus, both in São Paulo: a relative of the first patient diagnosed and another who had contact with this second case.

For the government, as the episodes are linked, it is not yet possible to say that there is sustained transmission. "All cases have a travel history or contact history," said Secretary Wanderson Oliveira.

There are already nine confirmed cases in the country. In DF, a positive awaits a counter-proof.

SAO PAULOS/ SP, BRASIL, 02-26-2020: The government plans to open health posts at night. (Foto: Zanone Fraissat/Folhapress, COTIDIANO)

The number of possible cases still under investigation has also risen to 636. Another 378  were discarded.

With more infected and facing the risk of overload in the system, the federal government plans a package of measures to equip basic health units against the disease. Until then, the focus was on hospitals and laboratories.

The idea is to prepare health centers to help with clinical diagnosis and assistance from patients, especially in mild cases. Another point is to increase the number of units that operate at night.

A new application from Mais Médicos, which was being reduced by the government, is also planned. According to minister Luiz Henrique Mandetta, vacancies will be opened even in capitals and larger cities.

Translated by Kiratiana Freelon

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