Bolsonaro's first govt event after virus recovery

Brazil's President Jair Bolsonaro on Wednesday attended his first public event since recovering from COVID-19, though he declined to speak.

Brazil's president is typically last to address the crowd in ceremonies at the presidential palace, but Bolsonaro only watched the event then left the room once it ended.

He wore a mask throughout.

The Brazilian leader has consistently downplayed COVID-19's severity during the pandemic.

On July 7, he told reporters he had tested positive for the disease, then spent more than two weeks confined to the residence while participating in meetings by video call.

On Saturday, he announced he had tested negative and left his home, rode a motorcycle around Brasilia and took photos with some well-wishers.

Bolsonaro said he experienced only minor symptoms of the disease during his convalescence and took to social media to promote the use of hydroxychloroquine for treatment.

Despite a growing number of studies showing hydroxychloroquine is ineffective against the disease and can cause serious side effects, Bolsonaro remains an enthusiast of the anti-malaria drug.

On the final days before announcing his recovery, Bolsonaro began participating in the daily flag-lowering ceremony in front of the residence.

He remained separated by a reflecting pool from the few dozen supporters who attended the ceremony.