Rio in quarantine - Disease has reached epidemic proportions - Research to find cure is ongoing

A quarantine of Rio has been implemented to prevent the epidemic from spreading to other cities. The disease originated in the neighborhood of Cosme Velho next to Christ the Redeemer landmark. Already more than 6000 deaths are attributed to the disease. About 10,000 people are in critical condition and  currently hospitalized with the mysterious bacteria that scientists have named bacterium Z. Rodents populations are suspected of transmitting the disease to humans through flees. Several have tested positive for the bacterium. The disease is highly contagious and can be transmitted easily by simple contact with  an infected person As a precautionary measure, residents are asked to apply insect repellents to prevent flea bites and to eliminate sources of food around homes. Any person suspecting fleabites or contacts with infected persons should report to the hospital. Intensive research on bacterium Z are led by a team of scientists at University of Michigan, C. Vogt, O. Lam and J. O'Donnell, to study the bacterium mechanism and perform experiments to identify a cure for this deadly disease.