The city of Parauapebas, population 187,600, is in the state of...

The city of Parauapebas, population 187,600, is in the state of Para on the edge of the Amazon rainforest and only 50 ks from Vale's Carajas mines.

It really is the lifeline to the Vale mines and the closest outpost of civilisation.

But its entire population is in lockdown, and it's Mayor, Darci Lerman, as well as the Governor of Para himself, Helder Barbalho, have both announced they have COVID 19 and are recovering in self isolation.

But then again- the virus is rampant in this city on the edge of the jungle. There are 433 confirmed cases- but this is only the tip of the iceberg, as so many cases go unreported in Brazil, and in this city too.

There have been 43 reported deaths from COVID 19 in the city, and 147 infected people are self isolating at home- due to a lack of beds in the 5 hospitals in the city. ICU beds and ventilators are scarce. Nurses and doctors have died, probably due to a lack of PPE. People are scared, and the streets are deserted. One of the hospitals is very new- but there are apparently no doctors for it yet, due to a shortage of medical professionals in the city.



433 reported cases. 43 people in hospital 43 reported deaths so far 147 infected people in home isolation 200 recovered - and how many more infected or dead without being reported? A city of deserted streets, its population living in fear.




Parauapebas is only 50ks from the Carajas mines, on the main road and the only railway line.