Selecting digital contact tracing and quarantine tools for COVID-19: guiding principles and considerations for a stepwise approach

Contact tracing is a key component of the COVID-19 response, particularly as societies begin to lift non-pharmaceutical interventions. However, it is a time-consuming and resource-intensive effort that depends on a trained and motivated workforce. Emergent digital contact tracing and quarantine (‎DCTQ)‎ tools offer the potential to complement and strengthen conventional contact tracing initiatives on an unprecedented scale. Despite their visibility throughout the pandemic, DCTQ tools require careful consideration and planning due to their novelty and complexities. The set of guiding principles and stepwise approach outlined in this document aim to support Member States throughout their decision-making process of identifying, assessing, adopting, and adapting such tools.