Veneto's successful lesson for a world shocked by COVID-19: think globally and act locally

Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARSCoV- 2) infection has wreaked havoc globally, with an ominous morbidity and mortality impact.1,2 Indeed, croronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) still represents a formidable challenge for pathophysiology, prognostication, management, and rehabilitation. This holds even truer given the conflicting reports accrued so far for several purportedly effective interventions.1,3,4 Although substantial steps have been accomplished in terms of diagnostic yield, even recognizing early infection is still quite challenging. Each country has addressed COVID-19 in its own way, with variable results. Perusing data on China’s experience with the virus brings forward several questions in terms of completeness and truthfulness of reporting, with substantial skepticism despite several authoritative reports.5 For instance, to date, China has reported fewer COVID-19-related deaths than many smaller countries where COVID-19 spread much later (eg, The Netherlands). Countries and healthcare systems that have acted with a global vision, but also with a firm and proactive local hand, have seen the best results in terms of deaths and system derangement. Conversely, countries with a loose policy (either initially such as the United Kingdom or throughout such as Sweden) have already paid an enormous toll of life and pain, and hypothetically will continue to do so.