São Paulo Reaches Broadest Economic Reopening Stage Since Quarantine Began

RIO DE JANEIRO, BRAZIL – The state of São Paulo has reached the greatest opening of the economy since the start of quarantine, imposed in early March. On Friday, the government reclassified the 17 regions, and 95 percent of the population is now in phase 3 -yellow of the São Paulo Plan, a guideline for fighting Covid-19 that ranges from 1 to 5.

“There is an improvement in the state’s indicators. We are now into the fourth consecutive week in which deaths are decreasing, a first since the start of the pandemic. This downward trend appears to be consistent. But it should be noted that we are in quarantine,” said Governor João Doria at a press conference on Friday.

Previously in phase 2 – orange, the regions of Marília, Registro, São José do Rio Preto, São João da Boa Vista, and Presidente Prudente progressed to phase 3 – yellow. Only the region of Franca remained in the orange phase, while the Ribeirão Preto region, which had been yellow, fell back into orange.

With this new reclassification, these regions which improved their Covid-19 control rates may raise trade capacity from 20 to 40 percent, as well as allowing bars, restaurants, gyms, and beauty salons to open. The São Paulo Plan’s next update will occur on Friday, September 18th.

One of the main indicators that enabled this wider opening of economic sectors was the improved ICU bed occupancy rate. Two months ago, it was close to 90 percent and on Friday it stood at 54 percent in the state, and 52 percent in the metropolitan region.

Another figure that favored the reopening is the rolling average of deaths. This rate is based on the past seven days. Currently, it stands at 212, the lowest figure since early June. The peak was recorded in early August when it stood at 289. The total number of deaths stands at 31,091, while the number of confirmed cases is 845,016.

The data are compiled by the media outlet consortium that includes UOL, Folha de S.Paulo, O Estado de S. Paulo, O Globo, G1, and Extra based on information provided by the State Health Secretariat.

“We have already conducted over four million tests, having approximately 907 tests for each 100 thousand inhabitants. Despite this improvement in the rates, the state is still in quarantine. During the holiday, relax, avoid crowds and wear masks,” said the state Secretary of Health, Jean Gorinchteyn.

Anhembi Hospital

With the improvement in the rates, São Paulo City Hall decided to close the Anhembi Field Hospital. It became operational in April with 870 beds. Over 6,300 people were assisted there. According to Mayor Bruno Covas, the motive was the reduced need to keep this temporary facility. Its definitive closing is expected to occur on September 10th.

Source: Exame