Paris – In the face of the COVID-19 pandemic, a clear pattern has emerged: nations that acted swiftly and decisively to curb the virus's spread, even before hospitals reached capacity, achieved the most favorable outcomes. According to epidemiologist Arnaud Fontanet, writing in Le Monde, Denmark stands as a prime example of this effective strategy.
Fontanet emphasizes that epidemiological theory supports early intervention. The necessary measures to suppress a highly contagious and dangerous virus – such as containment and social distancing – remain consistent regardless of hospital occupancy. Therefore, delaying action until hospitals are overwhelmed offers no advantage and does not lessen the burden on the population.
Denmark's Prime Minister, Mette Frederiksen, demonstrated this principle by implementing robust measures on March 11, 2020, when only 10 COVID-19 patients were hospitalized. By March 18, schools, restaurants, and bars were closed, and remote work was mandated. This prompt action resulted in a peak number of new cases significantly lower than those experienced by other Western European nations.
Denmark's proactive approach allowed it to lift restrictions earlier than its neighbors, beginning on April 15, 2020. Consequently, the country recorded remarkably low COVID-19 mortality rates throughout the year.
Contrary to concerns that early lockdowns would severely damage the economy, Denmark's GDP decline of 1.8% in 2020 was among the lowest in Europe. This outcome underscores the fact that effective pandemic management does not solely rely on intensive care capacity but rather on preventing hospitals from becoming overwhelmed.
Other Scandinavian countries, including Norway and Finland, also adopted similar strategies, achieving comparable success. Their experiences underscore the importance of a strong public health culture and the value of early, decisive action in mitigating the impact of public health crises.
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