The Center for Latin American Studies is monitoring Zika virus before a new study abroad program occurs in Brazil.
UF in Bahia will focus on race and inequality in the region known for a diverse population. The trip will take place during Summer B and costs $4,974.
Rosana Resende, professor of Latin American studies and the faculty program director for the trip, said she’ll host an information meeting at 10:30 a.m. Friday at La Casita. During the meeting, she said she’ll address Zika virus, which may cause birth defects in pregnant women.
She said Zika virus, which is prevalent in Brazil, can also cause flu-like symptoms. She’ll be warning students about the risks.
“That is absolutely going to be a part of my information session,” Resende said. “It’s good to talk about.”
Students who go on the trip will take two courses covering race and urban development.
Resende said students will visit an island slaves escaped from during Brazil’s colonial times for the first three days. The first three days will also give students Portuguese language instruction.
“People say Brazil used to be a racial paradise,” Resende said. “Bahia used to be where black people would fully express their culture.”
Resende said she hopes students of different backgrounds apply.
“My expectation is that you can engage in critical thinking,” she said. “I want students who want to explore.”
Tomi Pasetto Vuorio, a UF international studies sophomore, said he looks forward to visiting his home country.
“I expect to learn a lot more about the local perspective,” the 20-year-old said. “Until you actually go there you can’t appreciate what it’s like.”
As of press time, the U.S. Department of State has not issued a travel warning for Brazil.
Contact Meryl Kornfield at mkornfield@alligator.org and follow her on Twitter @MerylKornfield.
