Uruguay now belongs to the elite of 42 countries on the global stage that appears to win the battle against the advance of the corona virus. That is the news coming out of the institute of scientific research in Cambridge Mass. USA. The current statistic tells us that Uruguay has had a total of 746 registered infections to date, with only 138 persons currently infected, 4 persons in IC and 20 deaths in total. The Uruguayan authorities mentioned the early restrictive measures taken, it’s proactive manner of communication combined with a comprehensive strategy for preparedness and response to the COVID-19.
On the 13th March the first 4 cases of COVID19 were reported. The same day, the Uruguayan government declared a state of emergency for health. A few days later, closures of schools, businesses, and borders via land, sea, and air were implemented accompanied by social distancing measures. The World Bank recently granted Uruguay a loan of US$ 20 million for the continuous combat of the Coronavirus. All of these timely implemented measures are bearing fruit. For the past 2 weeks, Uruguay has been implementing a slow but steady reopening of its economy. The businesses that were allowed to open must adhere to a strict hygiene protocol with the use of face masks in all closed spaces, disinfectants available at entrances of shops, restaurants, and offices plus the obligatory social distance measures. The frequently mentioned R (reproduction) rate stands currently at 0.74 and if it can be maintained below factor 1, a ‘new normality’ is on offer in the next few weeks and months, according to the paradigm: freedom wherever possible with security wherever needed.
