University of São Paulo: Pandemic retreats for eighth straight week in São Paulo

Data from the most recent epidemiological week (March 27 to April 4) show that the situation of the covid-19 pandemic in the State of São Paulo continues to improve, thanks to the advance of vaccination. All indicators continue to decline or remain stable, compared to the previous epidemiological week: new cases (-17%), new hospitalizations (no change) and deaths (-17.5%). Excluding the statistical effect of Carnival (which caused an artificial accumulation of notifications in the week following the holiday), these indicators have been falling in the state since the beginning of February. About 92% of the population over 5 years of age in the state already have a complete vaccination schedule, which works as a collective immunological barrier against the circulation of the virus.

The numbers, provided by the State government’s Scientific Committee, are summarized in this week ‘s USP-Covid Epidemiological Bulletin .

Despite the improvement in the situation, it is important to keep in mind that the pandemic is not over — the virus remains present and more than 50 people still die a week from covid-19 in the state. The use of masks remains mandatory on public transport and in health services, as well as in all closed environments at USP, on the recommendation of the Health Advisory Committee of the Rectory. Due to the large circulation of students, teachers and staff, the use of masks in open environments is also recommended, whenever there is a concentration of people. Only vaccinated persons are allowed to attend campuses.