Coronavirus

Brazil’s Covid-19 infection numbers go up, as fewer people isolate

Scientists estimate that it takes around two weeks for the Covid-19 official numbers to reflect the impact of social isolation measures. In Brazil, adherence to social isolation decreased by one-fifth between April 15 and 17. Now, 13 days later, the country has set a new record for new confirmed infections on a single day: 7,218.

According to geolocation startup Inloco, Brazil recorded one of its highest isolation rates on Good Friday, when 58.6 percent of Brazilians stayed at home. On the holiday, some states reached a 60-plus percent isolation rate such as Piauí (63.9 percent), Rio Grande do Sul (62.8) and Amapá (62.7). Exactly two weeks later, the country experienced a drop in the number of confirmed cases and deaths.

The numbers show, however, Good Friday was an exception rather than the rule. Since late in March, social isolation rates have consistently dropped, hovering between 45 and 60 percent. On Wednesday, the national average was at 52.9 percent. This week, the Brazilian Report showed how many cities in Brazil have ignored social isolation recommendations altogether — and the potential implications of that decision.