Introducing a coherent European framework for tuning COVID-19 response measures

Public health guidance

17 Mar 2021

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This document presents a coherent, yet non-prescriptive framework for tuning COVID-19 response measures in the European Union and European Economic Area (EU/EEA). Its aim is to ensure efficiency and encourage public trust and compliance, while continuing to protect the health of European citizens.

Executive Summary

This document describes the development of a coherent, yet non-prescriptive framework for tuning COVID-19 response measures in the European Union and European Economic Area (EU/EEA). Its aim is to ensure efficiency and encourage public trust and compliance while continuing to protect the health of European citizens.
The framework is based on the concept of a ‘contact budget’, allowing Member States to estimate the extent to which the effective contact rate needs to change, or can be allowed to change, to achieve certain epidemiological tiers.
Estimates will be given for the effectiveness of different classes of response measures, enabling Member States to choose the most suitable policies for their context.
On the basis of ongoing consultations, an interactive tool will be developed, supporting policy-makers and allowing Member States to make use of their own epidemiological parameters.