Learning from the Italian experience in coping with COVID-19

Anna Cristina Calçada  Carvalho; Afrânio  Kritski

doi:10.1590/0037-8682-0199-2020

##article.authors##

Anna Cristina Calçada Carvalho Fundação Oswaldo Cruz, Instituto Oswaldo Cruz, Laboratório de Inovações em Terapias, Ensino e Bioprodutos, Rio de Janeiro, RJ, Brasil
Afrânio Kritski Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro, Faculdade de Medicina, Programa Acadêmico de Tuberculose, Rio de Janeiro, RJ, Brasil https://orcid.org/0000-0002-5900-6007

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.1590/0037-8682-0199-2020

Keywords:

COVID-19, SARS-CoV-2, Italy, Brazil, Pandemic

Abstract

Introduction: In March 2020, the rapid increase in COVID-19 cases overburdened the Italian health system, with the country becoming the pandemic’s epicenter. Methods: We present a narrative review based on manuscripts, official documents, and newspaper articles regarding COVID-19 in Italy. Results: Characteristics of the epidemic, possible causes for its worsening, and the measures adopted across Italian regions are presented. Conclusions: In the early stages of an epidemic, effective decision-making is essential to contain the number of cases. Medical support for patients and social isolation measures are the most appropriate strategies currently available to reduce the spread and lethality of COVID-19.