Brazilian President Jair Bolsonaru expressed his hope that this week would be the last week of quarantine and self-isolation in the country, despite the growing incidence of coronavirus.
The President is actively criticizing the provisions restricting trade and services in the states to combat the spread of COVID-19 and advocates the need for “vertical isolation”, in which only citizens at risk and over 60 years of age should stay home. Regional authorities have decided to restrict the movement of all citizens without exception, as recommended by WHO.
“In some states, the restrictive measures taken are excessive… I hope this week will be the last week of quarantine, when everyone stays home, as a measure to fight the virus. There’s no point in staying home when the fridge is empty”, – Bolsonaru told reporters in front of Alvorada Palace. The video has been posted on his Facebook page.
He said he has not allowed fines to be imposed on those who do not observe the self-isolation regime because “if people on the street, they go to work, look for work to bring bread home”. Bolsonaru also noted that up to 70% of Brazil’s population can get sick with coronavirus.
“We will deal with two issues at once – the virus and unemployment. The economic situation in Brazil is worsening”, – he stressed.
According to the latest data, 38,654 people fell ill in Brazil and 2462 died.