Economist Podcasts Costly disbelief: covid-19 ravages Brazil again
Jan 20, 2021
Sarah Maslin, The Economist's Brazil correspondent, reports on the grim COVID-19 situation in Manaus, where government negligence and a dangerous belief in herd immunity have led to devastating healthcare crises. Meanwhile, Mike Dunn explores the revolutionary journey of lasers, tracing their evolution from obscurity to vital technology across industries. The podcast also highlights an innovative method in Poland, using clams for water monitoring to detect contaminants. Tune in for an insightful discussion that connects health crises with technological advancements.
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Manaus's Crisis
- Manaus, a city in the Amazon, experienced a devastating second wave of COVID-19.
- Hospitals ran out of oxygen, leading to many deaths, including those with other illnesses.
Oxygen Shortage Causes
- The oxygen shortage in Manaus was caused by a combination of governmental failures and high population density.
- The federal health minister ignored warnings about the impending oxygen shortage.
Herd Immunity Misconception
- A study about herd immunity in Manaus was misinterpreted, leading to a false sense of security.
- The study's authors later clarified that even high infection rates might not guarantee herd immunity.