Effects and sequencing of COVID-19 pandemic control policies in Latin America

Introduction: The extraordinary impact caused by the COVID-19 pandemic in Latin America gives special importance to the analysis of the control policies implemented. Objectives: 1) To update the evolution of the characteristics of COVID-19 control policies in Latin America, and 2) to analyze the sequence in which these policies are implemented. Methods: Data from the Government Response Stringency Index (GRSI), developed by the Blavatnik School of Government at Oxford University, was analyzed for the 20 Latin American countries in the period January 21 to November 9, 2020. The evolution of the GRSI, as well as of some of its components, was taken into account. The sequence of implementation in three countries (Uruguay, Argentina, and Panama) was also analyzed. Results: The vast majority of the region’s countries recorded an average GRSI of over 57 (out of 100) for the period. In 15 countries of the region, the mandatory closure of educational institutions was in effect on 75 % of the days. Eighteen countries implemented mandatory closures of businesses at some point. Ten countries applied requirements to remain in the home on more than 80 % of the days. The sequence of policies implemented by Uruguay reveals greater flexibility in application than those implemented by Argentina and Panama. Discussion: Uruguay’s experience shows that control of the pandemic was possible, and that differences with other countries may be related to structural (pre-pandemic) factors, and management performance. Conclusions: Health systems in the region must identify in detail the institutional constraints evident in controlling the pandemic, both to meet the challenges of health services in the coming months, and to improve preparedness for future pandemics.