RIO DE JANEIRO — Brazil’s former President Jair Bolsonaro is receiving treatment for pneumonia in an intensive care unit at a hospital in Brasilia, according to a statement released Friday.
Bolsonaro’s Condition
One of Bolsonaro’s doctors, Brasil Caiado, described the 70-year-old’s medical situation as serious, noting that pneumonia in patients over 70 can progress to septicemia. Earlier Friday, Bolsonaro’s eldest son, Flávio, announced on X that their father had been transferred from prison to the hospital after experiencing chills and vomiting. Flávio Bolsonaro is running for president this year and recent polls show him and President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva in a close race.
Bolsonaro is currently serving a 27-year sentence for his role in the attempted coup. He was admitted to the hospital after presenting with high fever, low oxygen levels, sweating, and chills, according to a statement from DF Star Hospital. Tests confirmed bronchopneumonia, likely caused by aspiration.
Hospital officials stated that Bolsonaro “is currently hospitalized in the intensive care unit, receiving IV antibiotics and non-invasive clinical support.” Dr. Caiado indicated it is unlikely Bolsonaro will return to prison in the next few days due to the demand for intravenous treatment in a hospital setting.
Concerns and Allegations
Bolsonaro was moved to a larger cell in January. His family has repeatedly petitioned the Supreme Court for house arrest, alleging mistreatment and inadequate medical care. On Friday, Carlos Bolsonaro, another of the former president’s sons, claimed on X that “the system” is attempting to harm his father. The Court has denied these claims and rejected requests for house arrest.
Bolsonaro has been hospitalized multiple times, including after being stabbed during a campaign event prior to the 2018 presidential election. In January, he was escorted by police to the same hospital for brain tests after falling from his bed.
Bolsonaro and several allies were convicted in September of attempting to overthrow Brazil’s democratic system following his 2022 election defeat. The plot allegedly included plans to kill President Lula, Vice President Geraldo Alckmin, and Supreme Court Justice Alexandre de Moraes, as well as instigate an insurrection in early 2023. Bolsonaro denies any wrongdoing.
The case garnered international attention when U.S. President Donald Trump imposed tariffs on Brazil, citing the judicial proceedings as a “witch hunt.” Many of those tariffs have since been removed.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Jair Bolsonaro currently being treated for?
Jair Bolsonaro is currently being treated for pneumonia in an intensive care unit at a hospital in Brasilia.
What sentence is Bolsonaro currently serving?
Jair Bolsonaro is serving a 27-year sentence for attempting a coup.
What did Flávio Bolsonaro say about his father’s condition?
Flávio Bolsonaro said on X that his father was transferred from prison to a hospital after waking up with chills and vomiting, and asked for prayers.
As Bolsonaro receives medical care, it remains to be seen what impact this situation will have on the political landscape in Brazil.
