From HSDL: Challenges and Opportunities of Reopening Efforts

In addressing the COVID-19 pandemic, the Brookings Institution published a new report, Reopening America and the World, providing an assessment of current efforts in restarting the economy and social institutions. As COVID-19 continues to shutter local businesses and communities, Brookings aims to contribute to the reopening debate by engaging in the most pressing topics of public health, economic revival, and social equality.

Significantly, the report emphasizes numerous points of concern, as well as some examples of success that became apparent in the midst of the global response to COVID-19. In particular, the implementation of heightened hygiene considerations and social distancing measures appear to be at the core of successful reduction of viral transmission. Furthermore, the availability of personal protective equipment (PPE), as well as enhanced healthcare capacity for testing and treatment remain essential in all reopening efforts during the pandemic.