Going back to normal, but how? Re-opening policies and the standards for a new normal

Abstract

Governments implemented to nonpharmacological methods and various limitation policies such as closing nonessential businesses, schools and limiting group gatherings, promoting social distancing, use of personal protective equipment, advising staying at home. These policies have caused various problems in social and economic life and gradual increase in psychosocial well-being problems. All societies yearningly are waiting for the COVID-19 pandemic to be brought under control and the measures to be lifted in order to return to their previous lives. Indicators are needed to assess the burden of disease in the country while lifting measures to control the COVID-19 pandemic. When using these indicators, it is necessary to consider the own characteristics of the countries. Personal precautions need to be continued for a while until vaccination becomes widespread and effective all over the world.