How to stop the next pandemic: ECDC publishes guidance to strengthen public health preparedness in the EU/EEA
The European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control (ECDC) has published a set of recommendations for preparedness planning for public health threats, offering tailored guidance for improving readiness for future health emergencies across European Union/European Economic Area (EU/EEA) countries, at both national and regional levels.
Drawing on lessons from the COVID-19 pandemic and the multi-country mpox outbreak of 2022–2023, the report provides practical, phase-based recommendations for health authorities across the EU/EEA.
It complements the EU’s broader preparedness planning framework, published in 2024, and is designed to help public health planners and policy-makers align with EU legislation and the World Health Organization’s (WHO) international standards.
From lessons learned to actionable recommendations
ECDC identified several thematic lessons from recent crises, including the need for sustained investment in public health, strong governance and leadership with a defined role for the public health sector, cross-sectoral collaboration, equitable access to care, and improved risk communication. These are translated into specific recommendations for each phase of the ECDC model of the preparedness cycle:
- Anticipation: Countries are encouraged to conduct cross-sectoral risk mapping, scenario-based planning, and capacity assessments. Tools such as the Joint External Evaluation (JEE) and States Parties Self-Assessment Annual Reporting (SPAR) can support these efforts.
- Response: Establishing national coordination structures, maintaining public health emergency operation centres, deploying real-time analytics, and developing clear escalation protocols are recommended, as well as digital surveillance systems and platforms such as EpiPulse.
- Recovery: After-Action Reviews (AARs) and In-Action Reviews (IARs), with a focus on health system restoration, adaption of existing plans, workforce support, and rebuilding public trust are important for the constant evaluation of the preparedness cycle.
A strong focus on communication
The guidance has a strong focus on risk communication, community engagement, and infodemic management (RCCE-IM). Countries are advised to form multidisciplinary RCCE-IM teams and engage proactively with communities, particularly when implementing public health and social measure.
The priority for workforce readiness
Recommendations include developing surge capacity strategies, supporting healthcare staff’s wellbeing, and investing in recruitment, training, and retention – particularly of the staff working in public health and the management of infectious disease outbreaks.
Tools, country lessons, and technical resources
The guidance features a range of case studies during and after a public health crisis from several EU/EEA countries, the European Commission and ECDC, and includes a catalogue of resources from ECDC, WHO and other international organisations to assist public health planners.
