Brazil Tries to Maintain Carnival Atmosphere Amid Zika Virus Outbreak
With over 270 confirmed microcephaly cases due to the Zika virus, Brazilians are still gearing up for their annual Carnival activities while planning to celebrate as normally as they can.
As reported by The Guardian, health experts have already made their warning that this year's Brazilian Carnival and Olympic Games could possibly increase the rate of people infected with the Zika virus. The reason behind is that Feb. is the perfect breeding season for all types of mosquitoes. Zika virus, being a mosquito-borne disease, can possibly infect a lot, including tourists, which could create a bigger problem not just in Brazil but in all parts of the globe.
"I am worried about this large group of susceptible people going to Carnival," said Dr. Eurico Arruda, a professor of virology at the University of São Paulo. He also added that with how most visitors are more likely to wear less protective clothing during the events, the greater the possibility that "they will be exposed. It is likely the cases [of Zika] will increase."
Despite the risks and warnings posted by international and local health officials, Brazilians are still looking forward to throwing their great and amazing Carnival celebrations. In fact, three million tourists and local participants are already anticipated in the Rio de Janeiro festivities which will be on Feb. 5-8. Recife is also excited to celebrate one of its top celebrations and show tourists their Carnival symbol, the Galo da Madrugada. Carnival dancers will also perform with their umbrellas in a five-day Carnival celebration in Olinda.
To lessen the risk of the Zika virus especially in cities that will be celebrating their festive events, the country's health experts and authorities decided to increase awareness campaigns and preventive measures against the disease.
These past few weeks, during samba and street bands' parades rehearsals, a number of volunteers were distributing flyers with information about the disease and tips on how to be safe from the disease.
While the people are preparing for the Carnival celebrations around the country, almost 3,000 healthcare agents have been strolling around areas searching for traces of Aedes larvae, fumigating every possible location to kill the mosquito-carrying-virus, according to the Dailymail.
Citizens and tourists who are planning to attend the festivals are encouraged to always keep an insect repellant lotion at hand. Also, though not that easy to do, better wear long-sleeved clothes and pants to resist mosquito bites. Citizens are also advised to empty containers which can become a breeding ground for mosquitoes, the carriers of the virus.
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