Brazilian state declares emergency after yellow fever deaths

Associated Press

RIO DE JANEIRO (AP) — Brazil's second most populous state has declared a 180-day state of emergency after eight people died of yellow fever.

Minas Gerais Gov. Fernando Pimentel on Friday announced the decision, giving him more leeway to manage resources to battle the outbreak in the state's northeastern region.

Pimentel said there are more than 150 cities in the region where the state of emergency will be valid, but only 21 have suspected cases of yellow fever.

So far there are 48 suspected yellow fever cases in Minas Gerais and laboratories have confirmed eight deaths caused by the disease.

Several cities in Minas Gerais state's northeast declared a state of emergency earlier this week.

Minas Gerais is alos experiencing a severe financial crisis that has affected investment in basic services.