How can we improve self-isolation and quarantine for covid-19?

Abstract

A consistent lesson from the covid-19 pandemic is the importance of a functional test, trace, isolate, and support system. The ability of people to isolate is foundational to this multipronged strategy, as it breaks chains of transmission and reduces infection rates in a population. Even the most effective mass testing and intense contact tracing systems have only marginal value if people who test positive and their close contacts are unable or unwilling to self-isolate. Given the global rise in cases of covid-19 and emergence of new variants effective isolation remains critical to controlling the pandemic. We examined the approaches to supporting and monitoring isolation in countries with available data to help understand what works. Data sources included government reports and websites, peer reviewed articles, preprints, and news media reports.

Rights

This content is not covered by the Open Government Licence. Please see source record or item for information on rights and permissions.

Cite as

Downloadable citations

Identifiers

DOI

https://doi.org/10.1136/bmj.n625

Repository URI

https://www.research.ed.ac.uk/en/publications/bbdefa5e-096f-467b-adc4-14e27cef71a0