NPR

Why Zika Is Especially Hard On The Women Of Brazil

They've been largely responsible for warding off mosquitoes at home — and caring for the children born with microcephaly. A new study says that the government has not given them the support they need.

Did the Zika virus put a heavier burden on women than it did on men when the virus swept through Brazil?

A new by Human Rights Watch argues that the answer is yes. It started with the task of keeping mosquitoes at bay — a task that often fell to the women and girls in a family. And it continues today with women shouldering much of the care for babies born with congenital Zika syndrome, which includes microcephaly, a birth

You’re reading a preview, subscribe to read more.

More from NPR

NPR5 min read
Here's This Year's List Of The Most Endangered Historic Places In The U.S.
The National Trust's annual list includes Eatonville, the all-Black Florida town memorialized by Zora Neale Hurston, Alaska's Sitka Tlingit Clan houses, and the home of country singer Cindy Walker.
NPR6 min readSocial History
For Many Missouri Catholics, Abortion Rights Means Choosing Between Faith, Politics
The state is shaping up to be big battleground over abortion rights in November. Research shows a majority of U.S. Catholics supports abortion rights — even though church leadership does not.
NPR2 min read
3 Salad Recipes To Segue From Winter To Spring
Think of these three salad recipes as an introduction to a new season, a combination of color, textures and bright spring flavors. They are light but substantial and satisfying enough to be a main course for lunch or dinner. 

Related Books & Audiobooks