The entire state of São Paulo will regress to the red phase, the most restrictive of the novel coronavirus pandemic containment plan, during the Christmas and New Year holidays.
The state made the decision on Tuesday (22). All regions will be in this phase during December 25th, 26th, and 27th and January 1st, 2nd, and 3rd.
The government fears an uncontrolled pandemic after the holiday season. In the past four weeks, São Paulo coronavirus cases have jumped 54% and deaths 34%.
In the red phase, only activities considered essential, such as health services and supermarkets, can operate.
"Between Christmas and New Year, we are not in a holiday period. The measures we decided to adopt show that it is not a time for crowds, parties," said Patrícia Ellen, secretary of Economic Development.
Translated by Kiratiana Freelon