COVID-19–We urgently need to start developing an exit strategy

Eskild Petersen, Sean Wasserman, Shui Shan Lee, Unyeong Go, Allison H. Holmes, Seif Al Abri, Susan McLellan, Lucille Blumberg, Paul Tambyah

Research output: Contribution to journalShort surveypeer-review

56 Scopus citations

Abstract

Aim: The purpose of this perspective is to review the options countries have to exit the draconian “lockdowns” in a carefully staged manner. Methods: Experts from different countries experiencing Corona Virus Infectious Disease 2019 (COVID-19) reviewed evidence and country-specific approaches and the results of their interventions. Results: Three factors are essential: 1. Reintroduction from countries with ongoing community transmission; 2. The need for extensive testing capacity and widespread community testing, and 3. An adequate supply of personal protective equipment, PPE, to protect health care workers. Discussed at length are lifting physical distancing, how to open manufacturing and construction, logistics, and the opening of higher educational institutions and schools. The use of electronic surveillance is considered. Conclusion: Each country should decide on the best path forward. However, we can learn from each other, and the approaches are, in reality, very similar.

Original languageEnglish (US)
Pages (from-to)233-239
Number of pages7
JournalInternational Journal of Infectious Diseases
Volume96
DOIs
StatePublished - Jul 2020

ASJC Scopus subject areas

  • Microbiology (medical)
  • Infectious Diseases

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