Doctor Appointment in Fortaleza: 2024 Update on Transmission Diseases

Fortaleza, a major city in northeastern Brazil, is a vibrant hub of culture and commerce, with a population of 2,6 million (2020) that has consistently been growing. As of 2024, it remains one of the largest cities in Brazil and a significant destination for tourists due to its beautiful beaches and rich cultural heritage. The city has 12 hospitals serving its population, providing both public and private healthcare services. Despite this, the public health system often operates under high demand due to the large segment of the population relying solely on it. This situation underscores the importance of healthcare accessibility and the potential benefits of alternative services like telemedicine, especially for tourists and those unable to access traditional in-person care efficiently.

Mosquito-borne Fever Diseases: Dengue, Chikungunya, and Zika

As of 2024, Fortaleza has reported 427 probable cases of Dengue, with 6.3% (27 cases) confirmed, 39.8% (170 cases) discarded, and 53.9% (230 cases) still under investigation, indicating a scenario of low transmission. For Chikungunya, there are 215 probable cases, with 6.5% (14 cases) confirmed, 54.4% (117 cases) discarded, and 39.1% (84 cases) under investigation. The accumulated incidence rate stands at 0.5 cases per 100,000 inhabitants. In the early weeks of 2024, no severe cases or deaths have been reported. More information on these statistics can be found in the Fortaleza Epidemiological Bulletins.

Respiratory Viruses in Fortaleza

Up to April 2024, the Central Public Health Laboratory (Lacen), using the RT-PCR methodology, identified 2,536 positive samples for respiratory viruses. Among these, SARS-CoV-2 was detected in 53.0% (1,344 samples), Influenza A in 31.0% (786 samples), human Rhinovirus/Enterovirus in 9.9% (252 samples), and other epidemiologically significant viruses in 6.1% (154 samples). For detailed insights, refer to the Respiratory Virus Epidemiological Scenario.

Chronic Viral Diseases

AIDS in Fortaleza and Ceara

Annually, the state of Ceará registers an average of 970 new cases of AIDS. Between 2014 and 2017, the detection rate of AIDS decreased by 18.7%, stabilized between 2018 and 2019, and began to decline again during 2020 and 2021, likely influenced by the COVID-19 pandemic which impacted AIDS notifications. However, in 2022, the rate increased again, recording 10 cases of AIDS per 100,000 inhabitants. In 2023, the rate is 7.5 cases per 100,000 inhabitants, with Fortaleza consistently showing higher detection rates than the state average. The HIV/AIDS Epidemiological Bulletin provides more information.

Hepatitis B and C

From 2014 to May 2023, 1,621 confirmed cases of Hepatitis B were reported in Ceará, most of them in Fortaleza. The state detection rates showed a trend of stabilization between 2014 and 2019 and a decline during the pandemic years of 2020 and 2021. Fortaleza maintained detection rates higher than the state average throughout the period.

Regarding Hepatitis C, 2,068 confirmed cases were reported from 2014 to May 2023. Since 2015, any case with anti-HCV or HCV-RNA markers has been reported, making the case definition more sensitive. Consequently, the detection rates of confirmed Hepatitis C cases may show an increase from that year onwards. In 2018, the detection rate reached 3.1 cases per 100,000 inhabitants. Throughout the period, Fortaleza showed higher rates than the state average. Co-infection of Hepatitis B and C with HIV showed higher prevalence among Hepatitis B cases, with 13.7% co-infection in 2021, and a lesser extent in Hepatitis C cases with 7.5% co-infection in 2022. More details can be found in the Viral Hepatitis Epidemiological Bulletin.

Telemedicine: English Speaking Medical Care in Fortaleza

My Brazilian Doctor provides telemedicine services for a broad range of health issues, with same day consultations with a local doctor, providing digital prescription valid on any pharmacy in Brazil. For expatriates and visitors in Fortaleza, Ceara, the service includes English-speaking doctors licensed in Brazil, ensuring accessible and effective medical care without language barriers.

This service is essential for maintaining the continuity of care, from lab tests to treatment management, which protects patients and alleviates symptoms without the need for hospital visits. By minimizing hospital visits, despite avoiding long waiting times, patients can reduce exposure to viruses and other infectious diseases, especially during periods of high demand.

My Brazilian Doctor excels in differentiating and addressing common conditions , such as Sexually Transmitted Diseases, UTIs, Respiratory infections, and traveler's diarrhea. This comprehensive care model allows for effective symptom management at home while monitoring for the need for further intervention.

Don't compromise on your health while in Fortaleza. Schedule a doctor appointment today with My Brazilian Doctor and receive the quality medical care you deserve. Check our booking page on the link below to book your telehealth consultation in Fortaleza now!