The Covid-19 pandemic has completely disrupted the functioning of our societies. Its elusive transmission process, characterized by an unusually long incubation period, as well as a high contagion capacity, has forced many countries to take quarantine and social isolation measures that conspire against the performance of national economies. After several months of social isolation and economic immobilization, the national governments of the different countries face the inevitable decision to reactivate their economies

In the volume we review, economist Joshua Gans tries to distance himself from short- term turbulence and predictions of present days to lucidly and methodically analyze how economic decisions are made in response to Covid-19. In his pages, the author recommends that containing the virus and stopping the economy, without letting companies fail and people losing their jobs, are the first necessary steps.

Gans makes a meticulous analysis of the world economy in times of pandemic, starting with the past measures of isolation and economic paralysis, brings us to the scenario we face of the set-up of a recovery that will limit the rebounds of the disease and the unnecessary deaths. He gives us a precise warning against the very popular thinking in terms of a “tradeoff” between public health and economic health. Gans explains that the current situation gives us the opportunity to develop procedures that will make it safe for people to interact. After the containment of the virus, either through the massive use of vaccines or the creation of herd immunity, he proposes to focus on innovation and the generation of measures to avoid future pandemics. Collaterally, it analyzes the policy tools that could help an economic recovery, distinguishing between economic losses during a pandemic and a recession.

This is a book that is perceived to be written at a gallop so as not to lose the impact that it could have on our societies at such dire times. Effort is recognized.