The latest Covid-19 numbers published by the Health Ministry show Brazil has had its worst 24-hour period for new infections (3,735) and deaths (407) since the beginning of the pandemic. The country’s total coronavirus figures are as follows:
- 49,492 confirmed cases;
- 3,313 deaths.
Newly-appointed Health Minister Nelson Teich said during a press conference that it remains too soon to tell if the jump in cases and deaths is directly related to an effort by states — especially in São Paulo — to end their backlog of coronavirus tests. According to Mr. Teich, authorities must wait a few days in order to observe the trends the numbers will present.