How to Control Hawaii’s Coronavirus Epidemic and Bring Back the Economy: The Next Steps

From UHERO, April 3, 2020

We spell out in detail how increased testing, comprehensive historical contact tracing, and isolation of exposed and infected individuals can lead to a rapid reduction in new infections and hospitalizations.

Once this system has been put in place and has operated successfully for several weeks, we may begin to approach several measurable targets—number of new infections, number of new hospitalizations, capacity of the health care system to treat newly infected or exposed individuals—that would enable Governor Ige to gradually relax his stay-at-home order and for individuals to gradually relax some social distancing restrictions.

PDF: Brief

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Herd Immunity or Containment through Test and Trace?

From UHERO, March 31, 2020

Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19), a viral disease caused by the virus SARS-CoV-2, has arrived and is spreading in Hawai’i. 

In an attempt to “flatten the curve,” we have closed schools and many workplaces, while the entire state shelters at home. As a result, the economy is contracting fast. 

While sufficiently flattening the curve is the most critical concern, what happens next? What is the exit strategy from current shutdowns and social distancing?

We contemplate two alternative strategies and discuss how Hawai’i’s unique characteristics may factor into the State’s decision….

LINK >>> Brief

Related: Hawaii: The Road to Corona Recovery Leads Through Japan 

SoR: Economic report outlines measurable targets to re-open Hawaii’s economy

SA: Researchers offer draft plan for coronavirus recovery

CB: Ige, UH Economists Agree: COVID-19 Testing May Be Key To Restoring Tourism 

PBN: Hawaii has more steps to take to restart local, tourism economies