COVID-19 government response measures: analysis in the European Union

Abstract

Abstract Introduction The global spread of COVID-19 has led to a wide range of responses from governments, including in the European Union (EU). Measures involve travel restrictions, school closings, bans on public gatherings, emergency investments in healthcare, contact tracing and social welfare. However, responses have varied in scope, stringency and timing. The aim of this study was to analyse government response measures in the EU and differences across EU countries, in 2020. Methods Using Oxford COVID-19 Government Response Tracker indices (Stringency Index, Containment and Health Index, Economic Support Index, Overall Government Response Index; all scored 1-100), estimates were analysed for the EU and each country, in 2020. Results While the Stringency, Overall Government Response and Containment and Health indices were generally in line with COVID-19 incidence progression (peak in April-May, decrease in the summer, new increase in the fall and second peak in November-December), for all EU countries, the Economic Support Index showed heterogeneous patterns between countries. In the EU, the Stringency Index ranged from 1,85 to 96,30 (median:54,63; SD:21,07), the highest median in Ireland and the lowest Croatia. The Containment and Health Index ranged from 1,92 to 84,29 (median:52,88; SD:17,77), again with Ireland showing the highest median, but this time, Estonia the lowest. For the Economic Support Index, ranging from 12,50 to 100 (median:75,00;SD:20,36), Cyprus had the highest median, and Germany the lowest. The Overall Government Response Index ranged from 1,67 to 83,78 (median:55,83; SD:18,36), with the highest median in Cyprus and the lowest in Estonia. Conclusions There was wide variation in response measures across the EU countries, in 2020. The Economic Support Index showed quite a different pattern compared to the other ones. Understanding these trends and patterns allows for mutual learning and better preparedness for future pandemics. Key messages There was wide variation in response measures across the EU in 2020, especially in economic support. Understanding these patterns allows for better preparedness in future pandemics.