Rio Has 17 Suspected Coronavirus Cases; Health Secretary Favors Use of Hand Sanitizer

RIO DE JANEIRO, BRAZIL – The state of Rio de Janeiro has 17 suspected cases of infection with the new coronavirus (Covid-19).

Two French patients who had been in Paraty were ruled out for this disease. The numbers were updated on Friday, February 28th, by the State Health Secretary, Edmar Santos. He used the opportunity to advocate the use of hand sanitizer and criticize fake news reports on the internet, suggesting homemade remedies based on teas or vinegar.

He talked to journalists at the Guanabra Palace, alongside Civil House secretary André Moura and the director of the General Department of Specialized Police, Delegate Delmir Gouvêa.

In addition to updating the numbers for the disease in the State, the officials made a point of attacking the spread of fake news, unfounded news spread by social media, which ultimately hinder the government’s efforts to address the situation. According to the delegate, investigations are already underway to identify and punish the people behind the fake news.

Coronavirus cases in Rio

According to the latest survey by the State Health Secretariat, the 17 suspected cases in the state were recorded in the following municipalities: Rio de Janeiro (eight), comprising six residents and two foreigners, Niterói (three), Maricá (one), Macaé (one), Nova Friburgo (one), Resende (one) and Nova Iguaçu (one foreigner).

In addition, a further notification was issued by Niterói, but the place of residence is still being investigated. In addition to respiratory symptoms, patients have a history of traveling to countries with an active circulation of the virus.

The Secretary of Health said that a new hospital will be inaugurated within 30 days, with 75 specific beds for severe Covoid-19 patients. The milder cases, according to Edmar Santos, should be treated at home. In addition to the imminence of a coronavirus outbreak, he also alerted to the potential increase in the number of dengue and chikungunya cases.