ECDC : excellence in prevention and control of infectious disease

Abstract

Infectious diseases are our business. We have to be vigilant, efficient and effective, because a lot depends on us. European governments understand that as infectious diseases know no borders, there is a constant need for surveillance and assessment of risks to provide a strong and reliable line of defence for all Europeans. Our scientific work is closely linked with that of Health Ministries, national public health institutes, public health researchers, managers and practitioners in every country in Europe, with whom we are in daily contact, exchanging information, providing analysis, guidance and technical support. Protecting Europe from infectious diseases is not a chance benefit. ECDC has been built on well-coordinated public health alert and response systems, rigorous independent scientific evidence and analysis, the capacity to take quick and decisive action and communication expertise to deliver reliable information rapidly to those who need it. All ECDC’s central and field operations are organised to support and strengthen these vital public health functions, aiming to add value to country-led responses, particularly in times of financial constraint, and thus help save lives. ECDC is a scientific and technical agency, not a political body. It is our role to let the European Commission, the European Parliament and national health policy-makers have the advice and evidence they need to make decisions and take action to protect health. Working here is very special. Not only because we are on the front line of prevention and control of infectious diseases in Europe, but because of the enthusiasm, diversity and professionalism of our team. ECDC is unique. We are proud to be at the hub of Europe’s vast network of dedicated public health specialists, scientists, microbiologists and epidemiologists – over 10 000 in number – who work with us and other partners, like WHO, to protect people from infectious disease threats. We work hard to fine-tune these efforts so as to be worthy of Europe’s continued trust and support. With this brochure I invite you to learn more about how we work, what we do and what we offer.