In light of the rise in the number of new corona cases, there has been talk among the decision-making echelon about instituting a full shutdown. A shutdown is an effective tool for preventing the spread of disease, but it also has destructive results in terms of welfare, society, public health, and of course, the economy. Because coronavirus is not expected to stop spreading in the next few months, and a long-term shutdown is untenable, the main question is how we can ensure that if a shutdown is declared, we won't find ourselves facing a rise in new cases when it is lifted. How can we avoid a situation of things being periodically opened and closed, which neither society nor the economy will tolerate?
In a situation in which the public is asked to cooperate with steps that limit their personal freedom and affect their quality of life, decision-makers must secure their trust. The leadership has to present an orderly, coherent plan that lays out the stages of the battle and prove that it has done everything possible to avoid radical action such as a shutdown.
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It is important for the country's leaders to create a climate in which it is clear to the public that the rules and restrictions are really and truly for their benefit, and that the government work on PR outreach and transparency when it comes to the data on which it is basing its decisions.
The public should be shown what lessons have been learned recently, and how they will be implemented going forward to allow all of us to lead our lives as optimally as possible.
Countries like Germany, New Zealand, and Denmark are models of public faith in their leadership, so the public trusts it and follows its instructions. These countries' handling of the coronavirus crisis has indeed been impressive.
There are a few steps that Israel's leaders can take immediately. First, a "project manager" must be appointed to direct the battle against coronavirus. This is of unparalleled importance. The project manager, or "corona czar," needs to be given authority that will allow him or her to coordinate between all the entities involved, quickly and efficiently.
Secondly, the country must operate a system of rapid diagnosis that includes rapid epidemiological research and quarantine to "cut off" outbreaks. As of today, despite improved testing, there is still no system for epidemiological research, no new interviewers for fast studies have been recruited, no one has invented a computerized application for interviews that will collect precious data about infection and help locate contact with confirmed carriers. A corona czar would be able to expedite such a system.
Third, work from home should be encouraged. The public sector should instruct employees to work from home at least 60% of the time. That would prevent crowds in workplaces and the risk of infection would be significantly reduced. This is a step that can be implemented right away through courageous leadership decisions.
Meanwhile, the public also has a part to play when it comes to reducing the risk of spread. They can follow a few simple rules about social distancing, wearing masks, and avoiding enclosed public places such as restaurants, shopping malls, etc. We must protect vulnerable populations, such as the elderly and those with pre-existing conditions like diabetes, high blood pressure, and kidney failure. Multi-generational gatherings must be avoided, and supermarkets need to establish separate hours for elderly customers, who can also use delivery services whenever possible.
Finally, community clinics should set up separate hours to treat patients with chronic illnesses to avoid them coming into contact with corona patients, contracting the virus, and having it affect their ongoing treatment.
The leadership must work quickly to live up to its part of the contract between it and the public, and only then demand that the public follow orders and demonstrate discipline. If we and the country's leaders do the right thing, we can check the spread of the virus and make it through the second wave with as little damage as possible. If these steps are not taken, a shutdown, if one is enacted, will cause damage and suffering for nothing.
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