Food deliveries. Today we have covid wardens. In 1579 people called “keepers” were appointed by the city authorities to deliver food to people confined to their homes. If the isolating families could not afford to pay, the city would meet the cost. “Watchers” were sometimes set to ensure isolating households followed the rules.
Social distancing. In 1625 a man appointed to look after some of Norwich s poorest plague victims had to carry a red wand, at least a yard and a half long, as did all members of his family, to warn people to keep their distance.
Furlough, or a 17th century equivalent was used in Norwich in 1633 when three groups of actors and musicians were paid not to perform in the city.