Óscar Zurriaga
Professor of Preventive Medicine and Public Health at the University of Valencia and outgoing president of the Spanish Society of Epidemiology (SEE).
This is a difficult issue because there is no single answer.
Quarantine of close contacts is a fundamental measure to try to control transmission of the virus. But it is also crucial that it is done in the right way. It is not just about time: it is also about limiting contact with other people.
In a situation of extensive community transmission, it is possible to reduce this period, provided that during the remaining 10 days there is also a limitation of activities (avoiding being with many people, or in crowded places) and that strict personal protection measures are maintained (always wearing a mask, physical distance, ventilation, avoiding enclosed places).