Nine months after the enactment of a federal law that guarantees indemnity for children born with microcephaly related to the Zika virus, many have yet to access the benefits they are entitled to. The law, passed by the National Congress in June 2025, stipulates a payment of R$ 50,000 to families and a lifelong pension of R$ 8,475 monthly. Despite approximately 350 families in Pernambuco receiving the payments, over 100 children remain without access to the resources, highlighting significant delays in the allocation of funds.

In Pernambuco, the situation is critical, with around 1.5 thousand children and families impacted nationally by the Zika virus and the subsequent microcephaly epidemic. Germana Soares, president of the Association of Angel Mothers, which supports families affected by this congenital syndrome, indicates that the queue for payment has not progressed since January this year. Families are voicing their frustration as they have waited over a decade for recognition and support from the Brazilian state.

The stagnation in the payment queue raises concerns about the government’s ability to provide timely support to vulnerable populations, especially after such a pressing public health crisis. Delays in executing law-based financial support can exacerbate the hardships these families already face, undermining the intent of the legislation and highlighting systemic issues within public welfare systems in Brazil. More action is needed to ensure that all eligible families receive assistance without unnecessary delays.