Abstract

On March 11, 2020, the World Health Organization (WHO) stated that the number of cases of COVID-19 multiplied by 13 outside China, with a threefold increase in the number of affected countries. The WHO expressed its concern about the alarming levels of spread and severity of the outbreak, declaring the pandemic. This pandemic context is generating a social pact that seeks to ensure collective protection over individual freedoms. To meet the challenge, Governments must make decisions based on the principles that govern the State- These should consider the differences and particularities of those affected, without diverting attention from collective social protection. The following is a proposal on the ethical principles that should guide a State that makes decisions in public health emergencies.