The number of deaths related to COVID-19 has passed 500,000 in Brazil, the second-highest in the world, as experts say the outbreak could worsen amid slow vaccination and the start of winter.
The virus continues to spread as President Jair Bolsonaro refuses to back measures like social distancing.
The health institute Fiocruz says the situation is "critical".
Only 11% of adults are fully vaccinated.
Tens of thousands of Brazilians joined anti-government protests on Saturday.
President Bolsonaro has been heavily criticized for not implementing a coordinated national response and for his skepticism toward vaccines, lockdowns, and mask-wearing requirements, which he has sought to loosen.
The country has reported, on average, 70,000 cases and 2,000 deaths daily in the past week.
Most of the new infections and deaths were among people aged 20-59, Fiocruz said, warning that the start of winter in the southern hemisphere, next week, could result in more infections.
Despite this, governors and mayors have already relaxed the restrictions imposed to curb the spread of the virus.
In many cities, restaurants, bars and shops have reopened while many people in the streets do not wear face masks or follow social distancing.
[Source: BBC]
