There have been cases in all 27 Brazilian states, but the majority are in the most populous southeastern part of the country, including hardest-hit Sao Paulo state with 745 cases, followed by Rio de Janeiro state with 233 cases.

Many states have taken stringent measures to contain the COVID-19 spread. In those with the most cases, authorities have already ordered shops, schools and gyms to close for at least a fortnight, with several mobility restrictions.

For example, the entire Sao Paulo state is under quarantine, while Rio de Janeiro state's capital city is isolated, with intercity transportation suspended.

The number of cases in Brazil is expected to skyrocket over the next weeks, and by the end of April the public healthcare system might collapse, said Health Minister Luiz Henrique Mandetta last week, urging people to self-quarantine to reduce the risk of transmission.