Telemedicine in Sao Paulo: An Option for Medical Consultation in English

Medical assistance can be a challenge if you don't speak Portuguese

Transmission Diseases in São Paulo (updated 2023)

São Paulo City is a bustling metropolis that is home to over 12 million people, making it one of the largest cities in the world. With its dense population and warm tropical climate, the city is prone to several transmission diseases. Here are some of the transmission diseases that can be diagnosed through telemedicine:
Dengue is a viral disease transmitted by the Aedes aegypti mosquito, and it is endemic in many parts of Brazil. Data from Epidemiological Surveillance of Sao Paulo City Hall about Dengue, in the first three months of 2023, there were 3,190 reported cases of dengue in São Paulo City. In 2022, there were a total of 11,910 cases and two deaths.

Leptospirosis is a bacterial disease transmitted through the urine of infected animals, especially rats. Sao Paulo Epidemiological Surveillance reports shows that in 2022, there were a total of 203 reported cases of leptospirosis in São Paulo City, with 19 deaths. In the first quarter of 2023 alone, there were 82 reported cases and seven deaths.

Meningococcal disease is a bacterial infection that can cause meningitis and sepsis. In 2022, there were a total of 96 reported cases and 19 deaths in São Paulo City. In the first three months of 2023, there were already 32 reported cases and three deaths, indicating a potential increase in cases for the current year, accordingly to Data from Epidemiological Surveillance of SP.

Influenza B is a viral respiratory illness that can cause fever, cough, and body aches. Epidemiological Surveillance Influenza B reports shows that in 2022, there were 57 reported cases and one death in São Paulo City. In the first three months of 2023, there were already 84 reported cases and one death.

Diarrhea and foodborne illnesses are common in São Paulo, with Surveillance Data from Health Department reporting 25 outbreaks and 497 cases in 2023 alone. It's worth noting that not all cases of diarrhea are reported, and many may not receive medical attention. In 2022, there were 117 reported outbreaks and 1,697 cases.

Preventing diarrhea and foodborne illnesses in São Paulo requires taking certain precautions. Some of these include avoiding eating raw or undercooked meat and seafood, and ensuring that your food is properly cooked and stored. It is also advisable to drink bottled or boiled water and avoid drinking tap water or ice made from tap water.

HIV/AIDS is a sexually transmitted infection that affects millions of people worldwide. Accordingly with HIV Data from Epidemiological Surveillance of Sao Paulo, in the first two months of 2023, there were 360 reported cases of AIDS in São Paulo City. In 2022, there were a total of 2,356 cases, with a higher prevalence in men than women.

Preventing STDs and HIV in São Paulo involves practicing safe sex by using condoms, and seeking medical attention promptly if you suspect you may have contracted an STD. Teleconsultation is a convenient option for STDs and we can offer same day appointments if you need it.

Teleconsultation with a doctor from Brazil as convenient and safe option

São Paulo is the largest city in Brazil and one of the most important economic centers in South America. It is a vibrant city that attracts many foreigners from around the world for business or tourism.

The main international access to São Paulo is Guarulhos International Airport, which is located quite far from the city center, making teleconsultation a great option for those who are at Guarulhos Airport and in need of a medical consultation or access to prescription drugs, such as antibiotics, without having to navigate the city's busy traffic.

Dengue, leptospirosis, meningococcal disease, influenza B, diarrheal diseases, and HIV/AIDS are some of the diseases that can be transmitted in São Paulo, especially during certain seasons of the year and on periferic urban areas of the city. These diseases can start with similar symptoms, which can be confusing for doctors, especially for those who are not updated with the epidemiological situation and outbreaks on the city.

So, it is very common when consulting a physician from high-developed countries, where some of these diseases are rare and the professional can not have experienced any patient with that, to face diagnostic dificulties. It can also be challenging to diagnose and manage symptoms, drugs and where to find specific lab exams. On the other hand, consulting local health services can be challenging to find a doctor who can understand clearly your symptoms description and speak in english.

Fortunately, teleconsultation is now an option available with My Brazilian Doctor for foreigners to improve access to a local doctor who speaks english. It is a convenient way to consult a doctor registered in Brazil who knows the epidemiological situation and has experience treating tropical diseases. The difficult to find an english speaking doctor is frequently mentioned as an issue even for expats that live in Sao Paulo. A physician registered in Brazil can prescribe drugs available locally as well as request labs and if necessary even make a proper referral to hospital in case you have indication for presential intervention. An experienced doctor who speaks English and can understand the details of your symptoms is essential for a proper diagnosis and treatment.

Telemedicine can be a great tool to diagnose, prescribe, and if necessary, refer you to a local hospital to avoid misunderstandings. The doctor can provide a clear referral in Portuguese communicating your symptoms and a diagnostic hypothesis, which will help the hospital staff to provide the appropriate treatment.

One of the benefits of teleconsultation is that you can have a medical consultation from the comfort of your own home or hotel. You do not need to travel to a clinic or hospital, which can be time-consuming and stressful, especially if you are not feeling well. You can also avoid the risk of exposure to other infectious diseases that you may encounter on a waiting room. It is even possible to have an individualized health check-up consultation with telemedicine service of My Brazilian Doctor.

Another advantage of teleconsultation is that it is less time and cost consuming than a traditional medical consultation. You do not need to pay for unecessary interventions, transportation or parking, and the consultation fee is usually lower than a face-to-face consultation.

In conclusion, teleconsultation is an excellent option for foreigners in São Paulo who need medical attention. It is a convenient, safe and affordable way to consult a doctor who knows the epidemiological situation and can provide a proper diagnosis and treatment. If you are experiencing symptoms of any of the diseases transmitted in São Paulo, do not hesitate to contact us or ask for our same day teleconsultation service.