COVID-19 exit strategy: Transitioning towards a new normal

Area of Science:

• Public Health
• Epidemiology
• Social Science

Background:

• The COVID-19 pandemic, caused by SARS-CoV-2, necessitates movement restrictions impacting social and economic sectors.
• There is growing pressure to resume economic activities while managing virus transmission.
• Effective planning is crucial for lifting restrictions and transitioning to a sustainable 'new normal'.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review and recommend strategies for establishing a 'new normal' in daily life and work.
• To guide the phased reopening of social and economic sectors.
• To integrate public health recommendations into everyday practices.

Main Methods:

• Literature review and synthesis of existing public health guidelines.
• Analysis of phased reopening strategies.
• Examination of community engagement models for pandemic control.

Main Results:

• Phased reopening prioritizing safety and health over immediate economic recovery is recommended.
• Adaptation of World Health Organization (WHO) guidelines on social distancing and personal hygiene is essential.
• Government and local authorities should implement a 'soft landing' approach based on WHO recommendations.
• Community engagement and empowerment are vital for preventing virus spread.

Conclusions:

• The proposed 'new normal' allows continuation of daily routines while reducing COVID-19 transmission.
• Public adaptation and adoption of these measures are critical for long-term control and prevention.
• Medical considerations were outside the scope of this review.
• The population must embrace the 'new normal' as COVID-19 may persist.