The capital of the Brazilian state of Santa Catarina faces an unprecedented crisis: more than 400 cases of severe acute respiratory syndrome forced the authorities to take drastic measures.
Medical treatment. Photo: Unspash
Florianópolisone of the main urban centers in the south of Brazilthe state of Health emergency declared before the accelerated increase in cases of Strily acute respiratory syndrome (Mrs.)a clinical condition that can be caused by different viruses such as flu or respiratory syncitial virus (VSR).
The measure was formalized through a decree published on May 1, 2025 and will have a Initial validity of 180 dayswith the possibility of extension.
The state of health emergency was declared to the accelerated increase in cases of severe acute respiratory syndrome (Srag). Foto: Unsplash.
According to local authorities, the outbreak saturated the hospital infrastructure, especially the Intensive Care Units (ICU), which show critical occupation levels in pediatric, neonatal and adult areas.
The increase in serious hospitalizations generated overcrowding and reduced the response capacity of the health system, A situation that the authorities consider alarming.
Since January 2025 they were recorded More than 400 confirmed cases of Srag in the municipality, a figure considered high if it is taken into account that Florianópolis It has an estimated population of 537,000 inhabitants.
The virus especially affected young children y older adultsconsidered the most fragile sectors against acute respiratory infections.
The use of chinies in closed or busy spaces was advised. Photo: Archive Télam
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Health alert in Brazil: exceptional measures to contain the emergency
The decree enables a series of Actions aimed at reinforcing the health system and contain the propagation of the virus:
- Hiring of health personnel: It will be allowed to incorporate doctors, nurses, technicians and other professionals temporarily and urgently.
- Extension of the working day: Functioning staff may be summoned to extend their shifts, under current labor regulations.
- Direct purchases: The acquisition of medicines, supplies and equipment is authorized without the need for bidding processes, to expedite the answer.
The municipal health authorities reported that a constant monitoring of the evolution of cases in hospitals and primary care centers. In addition, the reinforcement of vaccination campaigns against the flu and the impulse to Volunteer mask use in closed or busy spaces.
Vaccination will be recommended in the most vulnerable groups. Photo: Unspash.
If the contagios curve is not stabilized, New preventive measures are not ruled outincluding the suspension of face -to -face classes, restrictions on mass public events and modifications in business hours.
