COVID-19, which originated in Wuhan, China and spread to around the world, has been steadily increasing in Europe beyond China. The number of confirmed cases in France increased sharply after the first confirmed cases in Europe had in Bordeaux, France, on January 24, 2020. Currently, the number of confirmed cases is about 160000, which is relatively small compared to the United States and other European countries with a similar population. However, countries are looking for new countermeasures because they cannot predict when the ongoing spread will end. I would like to focus on the case of France to see what policies are practicable to overcome COVID-19
Because infectious diseases differ in infectivity and mortality, it is difficult to predict the economic damage caused by COVID-19. However, the Spanish flu epidemic in 1918 affected about 500 million people and killed 50 million people worldwide. To predict the extent of damage from the same case as COVID-19, service and entertainment-related companies experienced a double-digit decline in revenues in the 19th century. Efforts to overcome the health crisis, such as social distancing or containment policies to prevent the spread of infections, have adversely affected economic activities. Assuming a 50 percent drop in economic activity during the month and a 25 percent fall in the second month, the GDP will fall 6.5 percent, which may be more impact from the recession than during the global financial crisis.
For that reason, France typically implements three policies based on past cases.
First, strict quarantine measures were applied until May 11 to slow the spread of infectious diseases, starting with March 17, although they are now eased. Going outside was limited to the necessary cases, and self-isolation was recommended for high-risk groups (including the elderly). In addition, travel between cities, regions and countries was strictly restricted, and borders were blocked for more than 30 days. All educational institutions were closed, public events, including public meetings, were canceled altogether, and public places were also closed.
Second, in addition to the large-scale financial support for the health system, an emergency fund of 50 million euros for COVID-19 research was created and the overtime limit for hospital medical staff was abolished. Other non-emergency operations are being postponed and continuous efforts are being made to overcome the crisis, including providing transportation and accommodation to medical staff.
Third, to minimize damages in civilians, the date of payment of water, gas and electricity charges for small and medium size companies was delayed, and telecommuting was recommended to reduce the risk of exposure to COVID-19 of workers in the workplace. Also, paid sick leave was given to workers who had to stay at home due to their children's school closures or self-isolation. Unemployed people will continue to receive benefits, and temporary workers may be paid even if self-isolation prevents them from working.
It is true that France has presented a wise policy in dealing with COVID-19. However, I think that some other policies should be considered to reduce inequalities because low-wage workers, such as delivery drivers, are still exposed to COVID-19 risks in various ways.