Covid-19 forces Brazil's Congress into de facto recess

Mar 16, 2020 22:50 5 min read (Updated: Mar 16, 2020 23:00)

As Covid-19 spreads across Brazil, authorities are still struggling to find a way to deal with the virus. As of Monday afternoon, Brazil has confirmed 234 infections, with another 2,000-plus suspected cases—and the Health Ministry is foreseeing a “harsh 20 weeks ahead.” The response around the country has been quite erratic, with many—but not all—states forbidding crowds in places such as cinemas or gyms, and limiting access to public buildings.

In Congress, where many of the lawmakers and staff fall into risk groups on account of age, the outbreak has essentially caused an early holiday. Heading into this week, access to the grounds of the House of Representatives and Senate was restricted to accredited employees, members of the press, and people who were summoned to hearings committees before the declaration of the Covid-19 pandemic.

Metal surfaces throughout the buildings—including sink faucets—are being cleaned regularly with alcohol gel, while congressional sessions are almost completely empty. Civil servants are already working remotely and taking turns to complete office hours. And, as many congressmen are over 60, the fear of being infected by the virus is tremendous, with the concern already reaching the leaders of both houses.