COVID-19 stretches weak Latin American health systems

Subject

Preparedness for COVID-19.

Significance

In two months since the first confirmed case in Latin America, COVID-19 has spread throughout the region and cases are rising rapidly. With a few exceptions, governments have responded with severe measures to contain the spread, including lockdowns and border closures. However, containing the impact of the disease will also depend critically on bolstering the region’s underprepared healthcare systems.

Impacts

• Governments such as Brazil and Mexico could face a backlash if mortality rates dramatically exceed those of other countries.
• The economic impact of containment measures will be severe, and the region faces a deep recession.
• China’s geopolitical position in Latin America will benefit from the extensive assistance that it is providing.