The “Epicovid 2.0: National Survey to Assess the Real Impact of the Covid-19 Pandemic in Brazil,” presented by the Ministry of Health, revealed that over 18% of Brazilians infected with the virus experienced persistent symptoms after recovery. Among the main complaints reported were anxiety (33.1%), fatigue (25.9%), difficulty concentrating (16.9%), and memory loss (12.7%). According to the survey, conducted with 33,250 interviews in 133 cities, 28.8% of these cases are still ongoing.
While the study provided valuable data on the pandemic’s impacts and vaccination adherence—showing 84.6% of the population completed the initial two-dose schedule—it also reignited debates about Brazil’s pandemic response. During the height of the crisis, then-President Jair Bolsonaro faced criticism for his skeptical stance on restrictive measures such as lockdowns and stringent restrictions.
However, the Epicovid 2.0 findings highlighted how the pandemic exacerbated social and financial inequalities, disproportionately affecting vulnerable populations such as Indigenous peoples and women. Minister of Health Nísia Trindade mentioned that the study, initiated during a period of “data blackout” under the previous administration, was resumed with more than R$ 8 million in financial support.
The data also revealed that over 28% of Brazil's population contracted the virus, equivalent to approximately 60 million people. Conducted by prominent institutions, including the Federal University of Pelotas (UFPel) and Fiocruz, the analysis provided a comprehensive portrait of the pandemic and its long-term effects.
The study raises questions about the measures taken globally, including strict lockdowns, which resulted in enduring economic and social impacts. Throughout the pandemic, Bolsonaro consistently pointed out the risks of such approaches to the economy and mental health, which, in light of new data, prompts broader reflection on balancing public health measures with socio-economic preservation.
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