Brazil: COVID's Deadliest Spot

India has now reported over 300,000 daily new coronavirus cases for close to 2 weeks straight – but did you know Brazil is currently recording a far higher death rate? Last week, Brazil passed 400,000 COVID deaths – the US being the only other country to do so. Brazil’s death count is almost double India’s, despite having around 5 million fewer cases – why?

COVID-19 deaths usually occur a few weeks after cases have been diagnosed. Huge death rates as seen in Brazil are a reflection of the high case numbers they experienced weeks ago (and continue to have). This means that in a few weeks, we are likely to see deaths in India sky-rocket as a result of the huge number of cases they are battling. India’s cases are likely to peak in the next couple days, hopefully leading to a decline. Hopefully, with clearer public health messages, restrictions, vaccinations and supplies coming soon, India can fare better than Brazil. It is a stark and heartbreaking reminder of the danger of this virus, and the need to remain vigilant even now.

The CPAP Clinic is a leading Australian provider of Respiratory, Sleep Disorders, Cardiology and PPE services and products. Based in Sydney, it has a network of 40 clinics nationwide.