Brazil's National Health Surveillance Agency (Anvisa) Tuesday approved the first vaccine against chikungunya, a viral disease transmitted by the Aedes aegypti mosquito, which also spreads dengue and Zika.
A Datafolha survey published Sunday revealed that 58% of Brazilians have reduced food purchases due to rising inflation, which hit 5.48% annually by March 2025. When measured amongst the poorest strata of society (people with an income of up to two minimum wages), 67% were forced to adopt contingency measures.
Brazil's economy has been reported to have stagnated in February, with GDP growth at 0% compared to January, according to the Getulio Vargas Foundation's GDP Monitor. While industry and investment showed growth, declines in consumption, agriculture, and exports offset these gains.
Former Brazilian President Jair Bolsonaro (2019-2022) underwent a 12-hour surgery Sunday at the Star Hospital in Brasilia to treat a partial intestinal obstruction resulting from the stabbing in the abdomen he suffered during the 2018 campaign. He had been hospitalized since Friday due to severe abdominal pain during a political tour in Natal.
Ancient cave paintings have been discovered in Rio de Janeiro's Itatiaia National Park. Preliminary investigations suggest the artwork may date back 2,000 to 3,000 years and could provide insights into past human presence in the region. The site has been restricted for preservation and is being studied by archaeologists. The paintings were found by chance during a climbing trip and have been safeguarded to prevent vandalism or unauthorized access. Future studies aim to uncover more about the site's history, its connection to other regions, and the people who created the artwork.
Brazilian President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva enacted the so-called Reciprocity Law on Friday, whereby the federal government can react whenever countries or economic blocs create measures restricting Brazilian exports, be it in the form of surcharges or objections to the origin of the product. The measure is to be published in Monday's issue of the Diário Oficial da União (Federal Official Gazette).
Former Brazilian President Jair Bolsonaro, aged 70, was hospitalized Friday in Rio Grande do Norte due to severe abdominal pain linked to ongoing complications from his 2018 campaign stabbing. Initially treated at a local hospital, he was later airlifted to Natal for further treatment. Rio Grande do Norte Governor Fátima Bezerra provided a helicopter for his transfer and ensured medical support.
Federal Congressman Pedro Lucas Fernandes (União Brasil-MA) has been confirmed as Brazil's new Communications Minister, replacing Juscelino Filho, who resigned after being indicted for alleged misuse of parliamentary amendments. The announcement followed a meeting between President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva and the new official. Lucas currently leads the União Brasil Lower House bloc and was nominated by his party for the position. He is expected to be sworn in after April 21, allowing time for administrative arrangements.
Two fans of Chilean football club Colo Colo -aged 18 and 13- died late Thursday in a stampede at Santiago's Monumental stadium during a Libertadores Cup match against Brazil's Fortaleza.
Brazil will require citizens of the United States, Canada, and Australia to obtain visas for entry starting April 10, following the principle of reciprocity, it was announced Wednesday.