The municipality of Fortaleza, Brazil, has announced that it will maintain up to 20 health posts open on weekends during the rainy season, a period associated with a rise in respiratory illnesses. This initiative was revealed by the city’s mayor, Evandro Leitão, and the Secretary of Health, Riane Azevedo, who emphasized the need to enhance healthcare options to alleviate pressure on the hospital system as cases of respiratory syndromes have surged following the Carnival festivities.

The decision aims to improve access to healthcare services in the city during a critical time, particularly for children. In addition to the open health posts, three units known as "Upinhas," designed specifically for children's care, will be established, with one unit dedicated to transport. This approach is part of the city’s strategy to proactively address public health challenges posed by the rainy season, ensuring that the community has readily available resources for medical assistance.

The implementation of this plan is expected to not only provide timely healthcare to residents but also to ease the burden on the hospital network, which can become overwhelmed due to increased demand during periods of higher illness incidence. The initiative reflects the city’s commitment to public health and readiness to adapt to seasonal health challenges, as officials underscore the importance of expanding healthcare options during times when respiratory conditions are most likely to spike.