Coronavirus

This case encapsulates Brazil’s social inequality amid the pandemic

This case encapsulates Brazil's social inequality amid the pandemic

When Covid-19 got to Brazil, it hit wealthier classes — as cases were imported by people who had traveled to Europe and Asia. Several times, these people transmitted the disease to house employees. The first death registered in the state of Rio de Janeiro is a testament to how inequality played a part in the virus’ spread in Brazil. But other examples have sprouted since.

In the northern city Belém, domestic labor was deemed as an “essential service,” allowing employers to demand their domestic workers continue their activities, even during social isolation measures.

But a family in the southeastern city of Belo Horizonte was at the center of the most bizarre case so far. With members infected by the coronavirus, the family posted a job ad asking recruiters about a nanny who had contracted Covid-19 in the past — or was currently infected (but with mild symptoms), which would enable her “to work normally.”

(FYI: There is still no evidence proving that contracting the virus grants future immunity to Covid-19.)

Unfortunately, this is just the latest that highlights the connection between deep-seated inequality, racism, and the pandemic in Brazil.

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