How cities can avoid lockdowns this winter

As Covid-19 cases continue to surge, policymakers are weighing strategies that can combat transmission without wreaking economic devastation.

It's a tall order. While lockdown measures have helped curb an estimated 60 million infections in the United States, shutdowns come with costs — including layoffs and business closures.

The number of Americans looking for work spiked by 4.5 million in April and has remained elevated.