Business Disruptions from Social Distancing

Abstract

Social distancing measures are effective non-pharmaceutical interventions against the rapid spread of epidemics (Bootsma & Ferguson, 2007; Markel et al., 2007; Hatchett et al., 2007; Wilder-Smith & Freedman, 2020). Many countries have implemented measures, such as school closures, prohibition of large gatherings, and restrictions on non-essential stores and transportation to slow down the spread of the 2019–20 coronavirus pandemic (Anderson et al., 2020; Cohen & Kupferschmidt, 2020; Thompson & Serkez, 2020; “Mayor de Blasio Issues New Guidance to New Yorkers,” 2020). What are the economic effects of such social distancing interventions? Which businesses are most affected by the restrictions?