Brazil’s Rafael Brandao is on the mend following a severe case of Dengue fever which required hospitalization. In a recent Instagram post, Brandao updated fans on his symptoms, recovery plan, and how long he might be staying under medical supervision.
Brandao is a top Men’s Open contender in the IFBB Pro League, who found success quickly against top-tier talent. Fans took notice of his symmetry, aesthetics, and balanced proportions following his bronze-earning performance at the 2020 Europa Pro Championships. Brandao was expected to compete on the Mr. Olympia stage that same year, but several health issues prevented him from the commitment.
One of Brandao’s best performances came in 2021 at the Romania Muscle Fest Pro. He took first place ahead of Samson Dauda and Quinton Eriya. Brandao mapped out a return to the 2022 Arnold Classic but eventually pulled out, citing health problems again. Nevertheless, he entered the Arnold Classic South America last year and earned gold plus an Olympia qualification.
At the 2022 Mr. Olympia, Brandao showcased an impressive package though some thought he lacked the size to contend with others in the first call-out. In the end, he took 10th place in his debut. Having yet to earn his 2023 Olympia qualification, Brandao will have until October 9 to secure an invite for this year’s event.
Rafael Brandao Offers Health Update After Being Hospitalized with Dengue Fever
Dengue is a disease that can infect humans through the bite of a mosquito carrying the virus. It mainly occurs in warm and humid regions of the world. Many people who contract dengue fever do not show any symptoms, but some may suffer from fever, headache, body aches, and nausea.
According to Brandao, he’s currently under doctor’s supervision and expects to be discharged in the next 3-5 days. Check out his post below:
“Good evening guys!
I’m a little absent here from the networks …
Unfortunately last weekend I had diarrhea and very strong pains in the abdomen, as I have a sensitive digestive system I was treating it as if it were a virus or food infection, until Thursday to Friday I had a lot of abdominal pain and came to the hospital, arriving here I was diagnosed with Dengue! They admitted me right away, as I was showing some symptoms that could worsen the condition to hemorrhagic dengue.
So I’m here hospitalized under medical supervision, probably staying here from 3 to 5 days or until everything is resolved!
Otherwise, I’m fine, being well taken care of and recovering to be able to go home soon. “
We are rooting for a speedy recovery” Rafael Brandao shared.
In light of Samson Dauda’s recent victory at the 2023 Arnold Classic, some believe the sport’s judges are shifting to favor aesthetics, beauty, and balance over size and conditioning. Terrick El Guindy, a popular promoter and IFBB judge believes the rise of aesthetic physiques is bad news for Nick Walker, who uses size, conditioning, and freak factor to overwhelm opponents on stage.
RELATED: Bodybuilders Flex Lewis and Rafael Brandao Join Hands For An Intense Back Workout
While he’ll likely need extra time for recovery, Rafael Brandao is optimistic about his bodybuilding future. Fans hope to see him back on stage in time to earn his 2023 Mr. Olympia invite as the contest is slated for November 2-5 in Orlando Florida.
Published: 8 May, 2023 | 1:17 PM EDT
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