As Brazil gears up for its vibrant Carnival celebrations, public health officials are implementing a comprehensive strategy to ensure revelers enjoy the festivities safely, with a particular focus on preventing sexually transmitted infections (STIs). This year’s efforts extend beyond simply distributing condoms, encompassing vaccination campaigns, rapid testing and access to preventative medications.
Health Minister Alexandre Padilha highlighted the importance of STI prevention during the Galo da Madrugada parade on . He emphasized that this Carnival marks the first time the Unified Health System (SUS) will offer two new types of condoms: textured (TEX) and ultra-thin (SENSI). These additions, incorporated into the SUS system in 2025, aim to increase condom usage, particularly among young people.
“We have numerous health professionals ensuring a safe and fantastic Carnival here in Recife and throughout the country,” Padilha stated, noting the presence of medical personnel from the Mobile Emergency Care Service (Samu), testing stations for syphilis and HPV, and vaccination posts offering protection against HPV and measles.
The Ministry of Health has distributed a total of 138 million condoms nationwide in the three months leading up to Carnival. This includes approximately 132 million external condoms, incorporating the new TEX and SENSI models, and 3.8 million internal condoms made of latex or nitrile.
This multifaceted approach is part of the “Carnival with Prevention. Before, during and after the festivities – the Brazilian government on your side” campaign, which specifically targets young adults. The campaign underscores the importance of consistent protection, advocating for condom use “at all times.”
Beyond condom distribution, the SUS is providing access to a full range of STI prevention services. These include rapid testing for HIV, syphilis, and viral hepatitis, as well as vaccinations against hepatitis A and B and HPV. Crucially, access to pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) for HIV prevention remains a priority, and post-exposure prophylaxis (PEP) is available within 72 hours of potential exposure at designated health facilities.
The initiative comes as data indicate that 60 percent of the Brazilian population does not consistently use condoms during sexual intercourse. Diversifying condom options is intended to address this, making the product more appealing and accommodating different preferences.
In a visually striking display of public health messaging, the iconic Zé Gotinha, a symbol of Brazil’s immunization campaigns, was joined by a larger-than-life version, Zé Gotão, created by local artist Miguel dos Bonecos. The two characters participated in Carnival festivities in Recife and Olinda, promoting vaccination and disease prevention.
Padilha also stressed the importance of early HIV diagnosis as a central public health strategy. “Testing is an essential tool for saving lives. The earlier the diagnosis, the greater the chance of starting treatment, improving quality of life, and interrupting the chain of transmission,” he said.
Condoms, both external and internal, are available free of charge at Basic Health Units (UBSs), Testing and Counseling Centers (CTAs), and through mobile health initiatives during events like Carnival. Rapid tests for HIV, syphilis, and viral hepatitis are also readily accessible at UBSs and CTAs nationwide, offering confidential results.
To help individuals enjoy Carnival safely, health officials recommend staying hydrated, using sunscreen, getting vaccinated against yellow fever if traveling to forested areas, practicing safe sex, and seeking medical attention when needed.
