Brazil’s Carnival Campaign Highlights Declining Condom Leverage and New Prevention Strategies
As Carnival celebrations approach, Brazil’s Ministry of Health is intensifying its efforts to promote safe sex practices. The 2026 campaign, themed “Carnival with Prevention. Before, during, and after the festivities, the Brazilian Government is with you,” aims to address a concerning trend: a decline in condom usage among the Brazilian population.
A Growing Concern: Condom Use is Down
Data from the Ministry of Health reveals that 60% of Brazilians do not use condoms during sexual intercourse. This figure aligns with a global trend, as noted by the World Health Organization (WHO) in a 2024 report detailing reduced condom use among young people in several European countries. The last National Health Survey (PNS) conducted in 2019 by the Brazilian Institute of Geography and Statistics (IBGE) showed that only 22.8% of individuals aged 18 and over consistently used condoms, with 17.1% using them sometimes, and 59% not at all.
New Options and Increased Distribution
To combat this decline, the Ministry of Health is not only reinforcing the importance of condoms but too diversifying the options available through the Unified Health System (SUS). Over the past three months, 138 million condoms have been distributed to states across the country, including new textured (TEX) and ultra-thin (SENSI) varieties introduced in 2025. The distribution includes approximately 132 million external condoms (textured and ultra-thin) and 3.8 million internal condoms made of latex or nitrile.
The introduction of these new models is intended to develop condom use more appealing and cater to diverse preferences, ultimately increasing adoption rates. According to the Ministry, this is a crucial step in preventing HIV, viral hepatitis, syphilis, and other sexually transmitted infections (STIs), as well as unintended pregnancies.
Beyond Condoms: A Combined Prevention Approach
The campaign emphasizes a “combined prevention” strategy, extending beyond condom use to encompass a range of protective measures available through the SUS. These include vaccination against hepatitis, rapid testing for STIs, and access to Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis (PrEP) and Post-Exposure Prophylaxis (PEP) for HIV prevention.
Pro Tip: Knowing your STI status is the first step towards protecting your health and the health of your partners. Take advantage of free and confidential testing services offered by the SUS.
Carnival Safety: More Than Just Safe Sex
The Ministry of Health’s guidance for a safe Carnival extends beyond sexual health. Foliões (Carnival revelers) are also advised to stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water, protect their skin with sunscreen, and get vaccinated against yellow fever if traveling to forested areas. Seeking medical attention when needed is also strongly encouraged.
FAQ
Q: Where can I find free condoms in Brazil?
A: Condoms are readily available free of charge at all SUS health centers and during Carnival events.
Q: What is PrEP and PEP?
A: PrEP (Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis) is a medication taken to prevent HIV infection before exposure. PEP (Post-Exposure Prophylaxis) is a medication taken after a potential exposure to HIV to prevent infection.
Q: Are the new textured and ultra-thin condoms available everywhere?
A: The new condom models are being distributed to states across Brazil and should be available at SUS health centers.
Did you grasp? Brazil’s Carnival is one of the largest and most vibrant celebrations in the world, attracting millions of tourists each year. Prioritizing health and safety is essential for enjoying the festivities responsibly.
To learn more about sexual health and STI prevention, visit the Ministry of Health’s website or your local SUS health center. Share this information with your friends and family to help promote a safe and healthy Carnival season!
