European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control

ECDC_Abstract:

Influenza activity was widespread in four countries in week 4 and present or increasing in the rest of Europe. The subtype A(H3N2) is dominating the season to date but A(H1) and B viruses are also present. This is reported in the latest edition of the ECDC Weekly influenza surveillance report (WISO).

ECDC_ArticleDate/Deadline: 03/02/2012 16:30

ECDC_Abstract: In January 2012, the ECDC conducted a rapid assessment on the status of surveillance for M. pneumoniae infection in EU and EEA countries. Available data seem to indicate that southern Europe is not yet facing an increase as important as that reported in the north. 

ECDC_ArticleDate/Deadline: 03/02/2012 00:00

ECDC_Abstract: The Call for expression of interest for the cohort 2012 of EPIET Member state track (EPIET MS-Track) is now open and has been sent to the coordinating competent body. EU Member states with acknowledged EPIET training site can express their interest in having a fellow trained, deadline is 26 February 2012.

ECDC_ArticleDate/Deadline: 02/02/2012 00:00

ECDC_Abstract: ECDC Director Marc Sprenger will participate in a media seminar and in the award ceremony organised on the occasion of this year's EU health prize for journalists in Brussels.

ECDC_ArticleDate/Deadline: 31/01/2012 00:00

ECDC_Abstract: Influenza activity is slowly increasing in countries scattered across Europe and is currently dominated by A(H3N2) viruses though with A(H1N1) also being important in some of the severe cases. This is reported in the latest edition of the Weekly influenza surveillance report (WISO) for week 3 (16-22 Jan 2012).

ECDC_ArticleDate/Deadline: 27/01/2012 00:00

ECDC_Abstract: The European Public Health Microbiology Training (EUPHEM) call for fellows opens today. The programme, coordinated and funded by ECDC, will recruit 4 fellows for a two-year training programme in public health microbiology.

ECDC_ArticleDate/Deadline: 25/01/2012 00:00

ECDC_Abstract:

Schmallenberg virus is a newly recognised Orthobunyavirus that was first detected in November 2011 in cattle in the Netherlands and Germany. As of 25 January, the disease has been detected in cattle, sheep and goats in the Netherlands, Germany, Belgium and more recently in sheep in the United Kingdom.

ECDC_ArticleDate/Deadline: 25/01/2012 00:00

ECDC_Abstract: Influenza transmission is slowly progressing in Europe and is currently dominated by A(H3N2) viruses. This is reported in the latest edition of the Weekly influenza surveillance report (WISO) for week 2/2012 (9–15 January 2012).

ECDC_ArticleDate/Deadline: 20/01/2012 00:00

ECDC_Abstract:

ECDC consultation brought together experts to discuss the malaria transmission risk in Europe and propose preventive actions.

ECDC_ArticleDate/Deadline: 18/01/2012 00:00

ECDC_Abstract: ECDC published November European monthly measles monitoring report (EMMO). The report highlights that the measles epidemic in Europe continues.

ECDC_ArticleDate/Deadline: 16/01/2012 00:00

ECDC_Abstract:

According to the WISO published today, influenza is slowly progressing across Europe and is currently dominated by A(H3N2) viruses.

ECDC_ArticleDate/Deadline: 13/01/2012 00:00

ECDC_Abstract: Recently reported cases of a new form of drug resistant tuberculosis stress the importance of effective infection control and treatment.

ECDC_ArticleDate/Deadline: 12/01/2012 15:00

ECDC_Abstract: A joint risk assessment from ECDC and the European Monitoring Centre for Drugs and Drug Addiction (EMCDDA) following a reported increase of HIV cases among injecting drug users (IDU) during 2011 found that most European countries reported no changes in the rate of newly diagnosed cases of HIV or HIV prevalence in IDU in 2011.

ECDC_ArticleDate/Deadline: 12/01/2012 00:00

ECDC_Abstract:

During week 52/2011 (26 Dec 2011 - 1 Jan 2012) the annual seasonal influenza began in some countries in Europe though intensity remains low as yet in all countries reporting.

ECDC_ArticleDate/Deadline: 06/01/2012 00:00

ECDC_ArticleDate/Deadline: 23/12/2011 00:00

ECDC_Abstract:

During week 50/2011 (12 - 18 December 2011), low influenza activity was notified by all 29 countries reporting: Read the Weekly influenza surveillance overview, week 50/2011.

ECDC_ArticleDate/Deadline: 22/12/2011 00:00

ECDC_Abstract: ECDC’s risk assessment found that there is not enough evidence to link xenotropic murine leukemia virus-related virus (XMRV) and chronic fatigue syndrome (CFS). Implementation of blood donor screening on an EU-wide scale were therefore not recommended to the European Commission.

ECDC_ArticleDate/Deadline: 21/12/2011 10:00

ECDC_Abstract: The European Programme for Intervention Epidemiology Training (EPIET) call for fellows for 2012 is now open. The programme, coordinated and funded by ECDC, will recruit 12 applicants for a two-year training in communicable disease field epidemiology.

ECDC_ArticleDate/Deadline: 21/12/2011 09:00

ECDC_Abstract:

The latest edition of the Weekly Influenza Surveillance Report shows that Europe is still reporting low influenza activity. ECDC has been monitoring the patterns of human influenza infection in the southern hemisphere countries in their winters as well as our own experience in Europe of last season as this gives some indication of what can be expected in the following northern hemisphere winter.

ECDC_ArticleDate/Deadline: 16/12/2011 00:00

ECDC_Abstract:

ECDC published November European monthly measles monitoring report (EMMO). The report highlights that the measles epidemic in Europe continues.

ECDC_ArticleDate/Deadline: 15/12/2011 00:00

ECDC_Abstract: ECDC published an update of its previous rapid risk assessment on Swine-origin triple reassortant influenza A(H3N2) viruses in North America.

ECDC_ArticleDate/Deadline: 13/12/2011 00:00

ECDC_Abstract: The latest Weekly influenza surveillance overview (WISO) shows that Europe is still reporting low influenza activity. Nine weeks after the beginning of the surveillance season for influenza, there has been no evidence of sustained transmission in EU/EAA countries.

ECDC_ArticleDate/Deadline: 09/12/2011 00:00

ECDC_Abstract: Between 21 May and 5 December, 2011, 63 cases of Plasmodium vivax infection have been reported in Greece. The majority of cases (n=57) are reported from the area of Evrotas in Lakonia district, Peloponnese in southern Greece.

ECDC_ArticleDate/Deadline: 06/12/2011 00:00

ECDC_Abstract: Today ECDC organises and hosts the third Eurovaccine conference. The focus of this year’s conference is on the economic and societal value of vaccination, risk perception and vaccination as an informed choice, and monitoring of vaccination programmes. An overall vision on these topics will be provided for professional workers involved in immunization activities in European countries. 

ECDC_ArticleDate/Deadline: 05/12/2011 00:00

ECDC_Abstract:

The latest Weekly influenza surveillance overview (WISO) shows that Europe is still reporting low influenza activity. Eight weeks after the beginning of the surveillance season for influenza in the Northern Hemisphere, there has been no evidence of sustained transmission in EU/EAA countries, but more influenza viruses are being detected.

ECDC_ArticleDate/Deadline: 02/12/2011 16:00

ECDC_Abstract:

Marking World AIDS Day 2011, ECDC and the WHO Regional Office for Europe release today their joint publication HIV/AIDS surveillance in Europe 2010. The new data raises concern about the continuing transmission of HIV in Europe, as newly diagnosed HIV infections are still on the increase.

ECDC_ArticleDate/Deadline: 30/11/2011 00:00

ECDC_Abstract:

CDC has reported recent infections in children in North America with a swine-origin triple reassortant influenza A(H3N2) virus that includes a genetic component from the pandemic 2009 virus, and with probable human-to-human transmission with these viruses.

ECDC_ArticleDate/Deadline: 29/11/2011 00:00

ECDC_Abstract:

The latest Weekly influenza surveillance overview (WISO) shows low influenza activity in Europe. For the first time this season local spread was reported by the Netherlands, while the majority of countries reported absence of geographic spread.

ECDC_ArticleDate/Deadline: 28/11/2011 00:00

ECDC_Abstract: Since the 21 June, ECDC has published on its website weekly updates on spatial distribution of West Nile fever cases in the European Union and neighbouring countries. Cases reported in the EU were confirmed cases according to the EU case definition and all reported cases outside the EU. The web page with the weekly maps was among the most visited pages during the period.

ECDC_ArticleDate/Deadline: 25/11/2011 12:00

ECDC_Abstract: Since the last European monthly measles monitoring report (EMMO) published on 18 October, over 1 000 new measles were detected in the EU and EEA/EFTA countries. This brings the total number of cases in 2011 to more than 30 200.

ECDC_ArticleDate/Deadline: 23/11/2011 00:00

ECDC_Abstract:

On the 22 November 2011, ECDC organised a workshop at the European Parliament to provide policy makers with more information on the facts about seasonal influenza vaccination and on ECDC’s contributions to the implementation of the 2009 Council Recommendation on this subject. 

ECDC_ArticleDate/Deadline: 22/11/2011 00:00

ECDC_Abstract: According to the available epidemiological and entomological information, and the arriving winter season, the intensity of malaria transmission in Evrotas, Lakonia in Greece is very low. For this reason, chemoprophylaxis for malaria is not recommended for visitors to the area. The use of standard mosquito biting prevention measures continues to be encouraged.

ECDC_ArticleDate/Deadline: 18/11/2011 15:00

ECDC_Abstract:

During week 45 (7-13 November 2011), all 28 countries providing data to the European Surveillance System (TESSy) database reported low influenza activity.

ECDC_ArticleDate/Deadline: 18/11/2011 14:00

ECDC_Abstract:

ECDC publishes weekly West Nile fever maps, based on information provided by the health authorities across Europe, with the objective to inform the national competent authorities about WNV affected areas.

ECDC_ArticleDate/Deadline: 18/11/2011 09:00

ECDC_Abstract: On the occasion of the 4th European Antibiotic Awareness Day, ECDC releases new European-wide surveillance data on antibiotic resistance from the European Antimicrobial Resistance Surveillance Network (EARS-Net).

ECDC_ArticleDate/Deadline: 17/11/2011 00:00

ECDC_Abstract: While Europe is experiencing low influenza activity a new study presenting global estimates of the burden of respiratory infections due to seasonal influenza in young children has been published online by the Lancet on the 11 November 2011.

ECDC_ArticleDate/Deadline: 11/11/2011 17:00

ECDC_Abstract: Approximately 600 public health experts from 56 countries gathered for the fifth edition of ESCAIDE and enjoyed 3 days of discussions and presentations related to infectious disease prevention and control.

ECDC_ArticleDate/Deadline: 11/11/2011 00:00

ECDC_Abstract: ECDC is presenting a pre-conference workshop entitled “How financial difficulties shape social determinants on communicable diseases”.

ECDC_ArticleDate/Deadline: 10/11/2011 00:00

ECDC_Abstract: ECDC releases today its fifth Annual epidemiological report, presenting the analysis of surveillance data reported for 2009 by the 27 EU Member States and three EEA/EFTA countries.

ECDC_ArticleDate/Deadline: 10/11/2011 00:00

ECDC_Abstract: Over 550 participants from 56 countries are taking part in this 3 day event at the Waterfront Conference Centre in Stockholm.

ECDC_ArticleDate/Deadline: 07/11/2011 00:00

ECDC_Abstract:

While Europe is still experiencing low influenza activity according to the ECDC’s Weekly Influenza Surveillance Overview (WISO) published today, an article presenting surveillance data for the last season (2010/11) in Greece has been published in Eurosurveillance.

ECDC_ArticleDate/Deadline: 04/11/2011 00:00

ECDC_Abstract: A new cohort of fellows started the European Programme for Public Health Microbiology Training (EUPHEM) fellowships. ECDC is releasing a new website dedicated to EUPHEM.

ECDC_ArticleDate/Deadline: 03/11/2011 00:00

ECDC_Abstract:

In week 42 (17–23 October 2011), all countries providing data to the European Surveillance System (TESSy) database reported low influenza activity.

ECDC_ArticleDate/Deadline: 28/10/2011 17:00

ECDC_Abstract: On the 26 October 2011, The Lancet Infectious Diseases published a systematic review and a meta-analysis, combining the results of several studies undertaken on influenza vaccine effectiveness.

ECDC_ArticleDate/Deadline: 28/10/2011 12:00

ECDC_Abstract: According to the available epidemiological and entomological information, and the arriving winter season, the intensity of malaria transmission in Evrotas, Lakonia in Greece is believed to be very low and is expected to cease shortly.

ECDC_ArticleDate/Deadline: 28/10/2011 10:00

ECDC_Abstract:

ESCAIDE, which is organised and financially supported by ECDC, is less than two weeks away.

ECDC_ArticleDate/Deadline: 27/10/2011 00:00

ECDC_Abstract: "The role of doctors and healthcare workers in direct contact with parents and children is paramount," said ECDC Director Dr. Marc Sprenger at the World Health Summit in Berlin, Germany.

ECDC_ArticleDate/Deadline: 25/10/2011 11:00

ECDC_Abstract: The evidence base for trust and reputation management by and for public health organisations involved in communicable disease control, although consistent, is still in an emergent phase. This is one of the findings of the literature review published today by ECDC, which also includes elements of good practice.

ECDC_ArticleDate/Deadline: 24/10/2011 00:00

ECDC_Abstract: Today, ECDC issues the second weekly edition of the Weekly Influenza Surveillance Overview (WISO) for the current surveillance season.

ECDC_ArticleDate/Deadline: 21/10/2011 02:00

ECDC_Abstract: ECDC is today launching a refreshed version of its homepage to further improve the accessibility of its information. Following discussions with our users, usability recommendations and web statistics analysis, the look and feel of the ECDC homepage has been changed to allow clarity of navigation and use of available resources.

ECDC_ArticleDate/Deadline: 19/10/2011 00:00

ECDC_Abstract:

Since the last European monthly measles monitoring report (EMMO) published on 16 September, nearly 800 new measles cases were detected in the EU and EEA/EFTA countries. This brings the total number of cases in 2011 to more than 29 100.

ECDC_ArticleDate/Deadline: 18/10/2011 00:00

ECDC_Abstract:

Today, ECDC issues the first weekly edition of the Weekly Influenza Surveillance Overview (WISO) for the current surveillance season.

ECDC_ArticleDate/Deadline: 14/10/2011 00:00

ECDC_Abstract: Seven interventions, one aim: no infections among people who inject drugs. In a new guidance document out today, ECDC and the EMCDDA have joined forces to identify seven interventions to reduce and prevent infectious diseases in this vulnerable population.

ECDC_ArticleDate/Deadline: 12/10/2011 14:00

ECDC_Abstract:

Greece has reported thirty-six cases of Plasmodium vivax infection in 2011 to date, 20 of which have been in Greek citizens without travel to an endemic country. Over eighty percent in are are associated with the area around Evrotas - in Lakonia. The risk for further extension of malaria into the EU is considered low at present; the main risk is related to persons living in the affected areas of Greece, concludes ECDC risk assessment issued today.

ECDC_ArticleDate/Deadline: 11/10/2011 00:00

ECDC_Abstract: In a joint seminar by Directorate General for Health and Consumer Affairs (DG SANCO), European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) and ECDC at the European Parliament, Marc Sprenger highlighted the decrease of Salmonella infections in EU.

ECDC_ArticleDate/Deadline: 11/10/2011 00:00

ECDC_Abstract:

The 2011 seasonal influenza immunisation campaigns have started across Europe.  As in previous years ECDC is marking the start of the 2011-12 surveillance season in Week 40 with the publication of regular weekly updates of the main epidemiological and virological developments in the Weekly Influenza Surveillance Overview (WISO).

ECDC_ArticleDate/Deadline: 10/10/2011 00:00

ECDC_Abstract: Strengthening public health capacities in a diverse European setting has become a major issue in an enlarged European Union. Migration within the Member States and incoming migrants from neighbouring countries is influencing national and regional public health policies. The importance of strengthening and building up new public health capacities in a time of increased migration is going to be discussed at the workshop organised by the ECDC at the 14th European Health Forum Gastein (EHFG).

ECDC_ArticleDate/Deadline: 06/10/2011 00:00

ECDC_Abstract: At his annual hearing with the European Parliament’s Committee on the Environment, Public Health and Food Safety, ECDC Director Marc Sprenger described the resurgence of measles in the EU as “one of the major events of this new decade”.

ECDC_ArticleDate/Deadline: 04/10/2011 00:00

ECDC_Abstract: Eight out of every ten physicians report experience of patients presenting printed internet-sourced health information at visits, which suggests a new dynamic in the traditional doctor–patient relationship. This is one of the findings of the literature review on health information-seeking behaviour on the web that ECDC publishes today.

ECDC_ArticleDate/Deadline: 04/10/2011 00:00

ECDC_Abstract:

In an editorial in the scientific journal Eurosurveillance, ECDC noted that, based on numerous studies, paediatricians, family practitioners and nurses form the backbone of each national immunisation programme in the EU.

ECDC_ArticleDate/Deadline: 30/09/2011 00:00

ECDC_Abstract:

At a special joint session combining experts from the National Microbiology Focal Points and ECDC's Advisory Forum, ECDC Director, Dr. Marc Sprenger, set out his vision for the agency’s role in strengthening public health microbiology across Europe: 'By 2016, ECDC will foster the development and facilitate the operation of an efficient public health microbiology system capable of providing timely and reliable information for infectious disease prevention and control at Member State and EU levels'.

ECDC_ArticleDate/Deadline: 28/09/2011 00:00

ECDC_Abstract: On the occasion of the European Respiratory Society’s (ERS) Annual Congress in Amsterdam, ECDC and ERS today introduce a draft of the EU Standards for Tuberculosis Care (ESTC).

ECDC_ArticleDate/Deadline: 26/09/2011 00:00

ECDC_Abstract: ECDC has published today the first detailed annual Legionnaires’ disease surveillance report. It describes the epidemiology of Legionnaires’ disease in Europe in 2009 and generates several new hypotheses as to possible risk factors for fatal outcome and clustering.

ECDC_ArticleDate/Deadline: 26/09/2011 00:00

ECDC_Abstract: This report describes the standardised laboratory protocol for molecular subtyping of Salmonella enterica serotype Typhimurium. It is based on the 5-locus multiple-locus variable-number tandem repeat analysis (MLVA) method.

ECDC_ArticleDate/Deadline: 23/09/2011 00:00

ECDC_Abstract: The goal of the Late Breaker session is to give presenters the opportunity to share important new findings of a recently conducted study which may have immediate relevant implications for public health. Submitted abstract should report on acute urgent public health problems or contain novel surprising findings supported by data collection terminated after 8 July 2011.

ECDC_ArticleDate/Deadline: 22/09/2011 00:00

ECDC_Abstract: In response to antimicrobial resistance and to strengthened transatlantic cooperation as agreed during the 2009 EU and US Summit, the Transatlantic Taskforce on Antimicrobial Resistance (TATFAR) published its report today, including a set of 17 recommendations in three key areas for future cooperation in the global fight to keep antimicrobials effective.

ECDC_ArticleDate/Deadline: 22/09/2011 00:00

ECDC_Abstract:

ECDC publishes a rapid risk assessment on the epidemiological situation of West Nile virus infection in the European Union. In the ongoing 2011 West Nile virus transmission season, cases have been reported from newly affected geographical areas. 86 human cases of West Nile fever have been reported in the EU, with 74 cases in Greece, eight in Romania, and four cases in Italy. In the neighbouring countries, 125 cases have been declared.

ECDC_ArticleDate/Deadline: 20/09/2011 00:00

ECDC_Abstract: The Shiga toxin-producing E. coli outbreak in Germany during 2011 showed the value of a solid microbiology network and the need to increase the speed of notification of cases of infectious diseases in Europe. These two issues were highlighted by ECDC Director Marc Sprenger at the 51st Interscience Conference on Antimicrobial Agents and Chemotherapy (ICAAC) in Chicago where he discussed the lessons learnt by ECDC following the recent STEC outbreak.

ECDC_ArticleDate/Deadline: 19/09/2011 00:00

ECDC_Abstract: ECDC is monitoring measles transmission in these countries and produces epidemiological updates. The European Monthly Measles Monitoring reports (EMMO) aim to provide timely public updates on the measles situation in Europe for effective disease control measures, and in support of the common 2015 measles elimination target.

ECDC_ArticleDate/Deadline: 16/09/2011 00:00

ECDC_Abstract:

The WHO Regional Committee for Europe approved a new action plan to tackle multi-drug resistant and extensively drug resistant tuberculosis (M/XDR-TB) today. This is another milestone in the European efforts to secure strong tuberculosis prevention and control across the region.

ECDC_ArticleDate/Deadline: 15/09/2011 17:00

ECDC_Abstract:

Starting 15 September 2011, ECDC will be coordinating the former EUVAC.NET network. It is a surveillance network covering measles, mumps, rubella, congenital rubella, pertussis and varicella EU Member States and three countries of the European Economic Area. Data will be hosted by the European Surveillance System (TESSy) at ECDC.

ECDC_ArticleDate/Deadline: 15/09/2011 00:00

ECDC_Abstract: ECDC concludes in its rapid risk assessment, that there is no evidence of a significant change in the pattern of human illness and deaths related to A(H5N1) virus infections, and there are certainly no epidemiological data or analyses consistent with adaptation of these viruses to humans in Egypt.

ECDC_ArticleDate/Deadline: 15/09/2011 00:00

ECDC_Abstract: Patient transfer between hospitals and in particular between countries, is a risk factor for the spread of highly resistant bacteria such as carbapenemase-producing Enterobacteriaceae (CPE), concludes an ECDC risk assessment issued today. This report assesses the risk factors for CPE spread and investigates the effectiveness of infection control measures within healthcare institutions.

ECDC_ArticleDate/Deadline: 13/09/2011 09:30

ECDC_Abstract: A new report addresses the question of giving scientific advice under uncertainties, in complex situations and often on short notice. The report explores how the best from the methods of classical epidemiology can be matched and possibly merged with the methodologies developed in evidence-based medicine to give a new blend, an evidence-based methodology for infectious diseases prevention and control.

ECDC_ArticleDate/Deadline: 08/09/2011 00:00

ECDC_Abstract:

Australia has reported oseltamivir resistance of A(H1N1)2009 influenza virus in the state of New South Wales,  with assumed person-to-person transmission of the resistant strain. The European Centre of Disease Prevention and Control (ECDC) has produced a rapid risk assessment to assess the situation.

ECDC_ArticleDate/Deadline: 06/09/2011 00:00

ECDC_Abstract: ECDC’s Emergency Operations Centre was built in 2007 at the request of the European Parliament, with funds voted to ECDC by Parliament specifically for that purpose. The highlight of the 1-2 September visit to ECDC by members of Parliament’s health committee was therefore a visit to the Emergency Operations Centre (EOC).

ECDC_ArticleDate/Deadline: 02/09/2011 00:00

ECDC_Abstract: A delegation from the European Parliament's Committee on the Environment, Public Health and Food Safety (ENVI) will be visiting ECDC on 1-2 September.

ECDC_ArticleDate/Deadline: 01/09/2011 00:00

ECDC_Abstract: ECDC concludes in its rapid risk assessment that there is no evidence "of the virus A(H5N1) having become more adapted to humans" and the direct risk to the health of EU/EEA population is very low.

ECDC_ArticleDate/Deadline: 01/09/2011 00:00

ECDC_Abstract:

A new meeting report is now available on the ECDC website. The report covers health communication strategies that could be undertaken to better promote influenza prevention measures and the healthcare professionals’ role in the uptake of seasonal influenza vaccination.

ECDC_ArticleDate/Deadline: 30/08/2011 00:00

ECDC_Abstract: ECDC's new technical document on risk assessment methodology offers several risk-ranking algorithms that can be easily applied to a wide range of different public health threats.

ECDC_ArticleDate/Deadline: 26/08/2011 00:00

ECDC_Abstract: ECDC publishes the report on external quality assurance (EQA) scheme for diphtheria to help identify areas for improvement in laboratory diagnostic capacities relevant to surveillance of this disease.

ECDC_ArticleDate/Deadline: 23/08/2011 00:00

ECDC_Abstract: Since June 2011, six cases of Plasmodium vivax malaria with no reported travel history to a malaria-endemic country were notified in Greece – in Evrotas, Lakonia, Peloponnese region, and Chalkida, in Evoia. ECDC issues a rapid risk assessment to monitor the event.

ECDC_ArticleDate/Deadline: 23/08/2011 00:00

ECDC_Abstract:

With the publication of two new reports ECDC further develops its evidence on migrant health: ‘Improving HIV data comparability in migrant populations and ethnic minorities’ and ‘Migrant health: HIV testing and counselling in migrant populations and ethnic minorities in EU/EEA/EFTA countries’.

ECDC_ArticleDate/Deadline: 15/08/2011 00:00

ECDC_Abstract:

ECDC publishes its technical document on influenza virus characterisation. Since the last influenza virus characterisation report, 250 virus specimens collected from February to June 2011 have been received from EU and EU-affiliated countries.

ECDC_ArticleDate/Deadline: 12/08/2011 00:00

ECDC_Abstract:

A group of international experts came together by a joint initiative by ECDC and CDC, to create a standardised international terminology to describe and classify resistant bacteria.

ECDC_ArticleDate/Deadline: 27/07/2011 00:00

ECDC_ArticleDate/Deadline: 25/07/2011 00:00

ECDC_Abstract:

ECDC has issued a risk assessment on cholera transmission related to travel to the Dominican Republic after two cases have been detected in tourists returning to the UK and Germany from resorts in the Punta Cana area of the Dominican Republic.

ECDC_ArticleDate/Deadline: 22/07/2011 00:00

ECDC_ArticleDate/Deadline: 21/07/2011 00:00

ECDC_Abstract: This report describes the epidemiology of invasive bacterial diseases due to Haemophilus influenzae and Neisseria meningitidis in the European Union (EU) Member States in 2008 and 2009.

ECDC_ArticleDate/Deadline: 18/07/2011 00:00

ECDC_Abstract:

ECDC commissioned a multinational case-control study to assess the association between adjuvanted pandemic influenza A (H1N1) 2009 vaccine and GBS. The results show that the risk of occurrence of GBS is not increased after vaccination with adjuvanted influenza pandemic vaccine.

ECDC_ArticleDate/Deadline: 13/07/2011 00:00

ECDC_Abstract: ECDC is monitoring measles transmission in these countries and produces epidemiological updates. The European Monthly Measles Monitoring reports (EMMO) aim to provide timely public updates on the measles situation in Europe for effective disease control measures, and in support of the common 2015 measles elimination target.

ECDC_ArticleDate/Deadline: 13/07/2011 00:00

ECDC_Abstract: The European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control (ECDC) has issued an updated  risk assessment on the outbreak of Shiga toxin-producing E. coli (STEC) O104:H4 in the EU.

ECDC_ArticleDate/Deadline: 12/07/2011 00:00

ECDC_Abstract:

The report indicates that resistance to antimicrobials was observed in zoonotic bacteria, such as Salmonella and Campylobacter, which may cause infectious diseases transmissible between animals and humans and which can be found in foods.

ECDC_ArticleDate/Deadline: 12/07/2011 00:00

ECDC_Abstract: With this report, ECDC presents the results of the Second external quality assurance scheme for Salmonella typing. Thirty-five laboratories of the Food- and Waterborne Diseases and Zoonoses Network (FWD-Net) participated in this scheme.

ECDC_ArticleDate/Deadline: 08/07/2011 10:00

ECDC_Abstract:

During the Informal Meeting of Ministers of Health, 5-6th July, ECDC Director Marc Sprenger gives a speech presenting evidence of health inequalities in the EU, as well as several options for intervention.

ECDC_ArticleDate/Deadline: 06/07/2011 00:00

ECDC_Abstract: European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) has issued a new report from its Task Force on the Shiga toxin-producing E. coli (STEC) outbreak in Germany and France. The Task Force has now concluded that one lot of fenugreek seeds imported from Egypt and used to produce sprouts is the most likely common link between the two outbreaks. EFSA continues to advise consumers not to grow sprouts for their own consumption and not to eat sprouts or sprouted seeds unless they have been cooked thoroughly.

ECDC_ArticleDate/Deadline: 05/07/2011 00:00

ECDC_Abstract: In his speech to the Informal Health Council on 5th July, ECDC Director Marc Sprenger outlined the lessons learnt from the EHEC/STEC outbreak in EU, as well as the need to strengthen EU cooperation against epidemics.

ECDC_ArticleDate/Deadline: 05/07/2011 00:00

ECDC_Abstract: ECDC West Nile fever maps are based on information provided by the health authorities across Europe with the objective to inform the national competent authorities about WNV affected areas.

ECDC_ArticleDate/Deadline: 01/07/2011 00:00

ECDC_Abstract: ECDC published a technical document on 'Influenza virus characterisation, Summary Europe, May–June 2011'. Over 450 virus specimens (propagated virus isolates or clinical samples) collected from January to May 2011 have been received from EU and EU-affiliated countries.

ECDC_ArticleDate/Deadline: 01/07/2011 00:00

ECDC_Abstract: The European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control (ECDC) and European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) have issued a joint rapid risk assessment regarding the new epidemiological developments in relation with the outbreak of Shiga toxin-producing E. coli (STEC) O104:H4. ECDC is also publishing a daily epidemiological update with the latest data.

ECDC_ArticleDate/Deadline: 29/06/2011 00:00

ECDC_Abstract:

On Friday 24 June, France reported a cluster of eight patients with bloody diarrhoea, after having participated in an event in the commune of Bègles around Bordeaux on 8 June. Of these, seven have developed HUS, a severe complication of E. coli infection. In three of the patients, infection with E. coli O104:H4 has been confirmed.

ECDC_ArticleDate/Deadline: 27/06/2011 00:00

ECDC_Abstract: The new report on the prevention of Creutzfeldt–Jakob (vCJD) disease transmission in medical settings provides a comprehensive analysis of the epidemiological situation in EU Member States and Norway. It represents a useful tool for Member States public health experts and policymakers.

ECDC_ArticleDate/Deadline: 20/06/2011 00:00

ECDC_Abstract:

Mass gathering events represent a risk for the spread of communicable diseases. ECDC is stressing the importance for European Union citizens planning to attend these events to be vaccinated against infectious diseases especially measles.

ECDC_ArticleDate/Deadline: 17/06/2011 00:00

ECDC_Abstract: On June 14, Eurosurveillance published new information on the characteristics of the German outbreak strain of E.coli and how these microbiological findings have been shared in real time by public health microbiology experts to disseminate best laboratory practice for case detection and public health investigations across Europe and beyond.

ECDC_ArticleDate/Deadline: 16/06/2011 00:00

ECDC_Abstract: On 7-9 June 2011, ECDC and WHO Europe jointly held their annual influenza surveillance meetings in Ljubljana, Slovenia. ECDC’s Influenza Programme Head Prof. Angus Nicoll highlighted the importance of cooperation with WHO and Member States for a consistent work on pandemic preparedness and seasonal influenza especially between pandemics, when the topic is less newsworthy.

ECDC_ArticleDate/Deadline: 15/06/2011 00:00

ECDC_ArticleDate/Deadline: 10/06/2011 00:00

ECDC_Abstract:

European Union countries face the challenge of how to best allocate limited resources in healthcare protection and disease prevention to achieve maximum results. Measurement of the burden of diseases provides important evidence for health policy formulation. The freshly released Methodology Protocol outlines the methods for measuring the current and future burden of communicable diseases in the EU and EEA/EFTA countries.

ECDC_ArticleDate/Deadline: 10/06/2011 00:00

ECDC_Abstract: Today, the German authorities published a press release on the current Shiga toxin-producing E.coli outbreak. In their joint statement they recommended in particular to abstain from eating raw sprouts.

ECDC_ArticleDate/Deadline: 10/06/2011 00:00

ECDC_Abstract: In his speech before the EU Health Ministers recently, ECDC Director Marc Sprenger outlined several public health measures to meet the measles elimination target by 2015 in Luxembourg.

ECDC_ArticleDate/Deadline: 09/06/2011 15:30

ECDC_Abstract: On 9 June, ECDC will be hosting a technical side-event to the United Nations High-Level Meeting on AIDS 2011. The event will highlight how countries and regions with differing epidemiology could improve their responses to HIV/AIDS.

ECDC_ArticleDate/Deadline: 09/06/2011 14:30

ECDC_Abstract:

ECDC is mandated to communicate directly with the European public on current and emerging threats to human health posed by infectious diseases. As part of this work - and to further establish the centre as a leading authority in the field – we are now launching a new corporate brochure targeted the European public, describing ECDC’s activities and goals.

ECDC_ArticleDate/Deadline: 07/06/2011 00:00

ECDC_Abstract:

Public health situation, in particular to communicable diseases, and recommended actions, following the increased migration at the Greek–Turkish border, are the highlights in a new ECDC/WHO joint mission report.

ECDC_ArticleDate/Deadline: 07/06/2011 00:00

ECDC_Abstract: ECDC is continuously monitoring the Shiga toxin-producing E. coli (STEC) oubreak in Germany and other EU Member States. The Agency publishes a daily update which include the most recent numbers of  haemolytic uremic syndrome (HUS) and non-HUS cases reported by EU Member States.

ECDC_ArticleDate/Deadline: 05/06/2011 00:00

ECDC_Abstract:

The call for abstracts for ESCAIDE 2011 (European Scientific Conference on Applied Infectious Disease Epidemiology) is now open and will close on 8 July 2011.

ECDC_ArticleDate/Deadline: 01/06/2011 00:00

ECDC_Abstract: ECDC has conducted a rapid risk assessment following the unusual increase of Shiga toxin-producing Escherichia coli (STEC) infections in Germany, with patients presenting with haemolytic uremic syndrome (HUS) and bloody diarrhoea.

ECDC_ArticleDate/Deadline: 27/05/2011 17:00

ECDC_Abstract: They are young, mostly female and their number is constantly growing: with nearly 344 000 notified cases in 2009 (1), chlamydia is the most frequently reported sexually transmitted infection (STI) across Europe. Three quarters of all chlamydia infections are reported in young people between 15 and 24 years of age. This is highlighted by a new ECDC surveillance report ‘Sexually transmitted infections in Europe 1990–2009’ describing basic trends in diseases like chlamydia, syphilis and gonorrhoea.

ECDC_ArticleDate/Deadline: 26/05/2011 00:00

ECDC_Abstract:

ECDC and WHO Europe jointly release “MESSAGE - MEaSles and rubella Self Assessment GEnerating tool” for public health experts, to facilitate assessment of the progress made towards measles and rubella elimination.

ECDC_ArticleDate/Deadline: 24/05/2011 00:00

ECDC_Abstract:

ECDC Director Marc Sprenger at the European Parliament's Committee on the Environment, Public Health and Food Safety (ENVI) stresses the importance of the EU’s continuous commitment in the fight against hepatitis B and hepatitis C.

ECDC_ArticleDate/Deadline: 24/05/2011 00:00

ECDC_Abstract: On 9 and 10 May ECDC will celebrate Europe Day by joining in the activities at Stockholm’s Central Station organised by the Representation of the European Commission and Information Office of the European Parliament in Sweden.

ECDC_ArticleDate/Deadline: 06/05/2011 11:00

ECDC_Abstract: On the occasion of World Hand Hygiene Day, 5th May, ECDC is releasing new web pages dedicated to the Healthcare-associated Infections Surveillance Network (HAI-Net) – a European network for HAI surveillance, coordinated by ECDC.

ECDC_ArticleDate/Deadline: 05/05/2011 00:00

ECDC_Abstract: ECDC was pleased that the Government of Romania extended an invite to meet health care workers who are working with the Roma population.  ECDC Director, Marc Sprenger, as head of the delegation shares three lesson.

ECDC_ArticleDate/Deadline: 29/04/2011 00:00

ECDC_Abstract: During a recent country visit to Romania, ECDC emphasised the key issues for TB control. Following the invitation of the Romania Ministry of Health, ECDC disease experts, led by ECDC Director Marc Sprenger, visited the Marius Nasta Institute, which historically has been in the front line for TB control in the country.

ECDC_ArticleDate/Deadline: 27/04/2011 00:00

ECDC_Abstract:

In support of "European Immunization Week" on 23-30 April, ECDC together with European countries and WHO Europe will participate in the sixth European Immunization Week.

ECDC_ArticleDate/Deadline: 20/04/2011 00:00

ECDC_Abstract: After conducting a rapid risk assessment, ECDC concludes that currently there are no major communicable disease outbreaks in the Libyan Arab Jamahiriya or in the reception and detention centres at the EU border.

ECDC_ArticleDate/Deadline: 12/04/2011 00:00

ECDC_Abstract: Current trends show both progress and challenges in fighting the spread of drug-resistant bacteria in Europe states ECDC’s analysis on the state of antibiotic resistance in Europe. Since 2008, ECDC is coordinating the European Antibiotic Awareness Day (EAAD) – a European health initiative that promotes prudent use of antibiotics. On the occasion of the World Health Day 2011, ECDC Director Marc Sprenger  presents the ‘Situation update on antibiotic resistance’ to the European Parliament in Strasbourg.

ECDC_ArticleDate/Deadline: 07/04/2011 00:00

ECDC_Abstract: In his speech today at the Informal Meeting of EU Ministers responsible for health, ECDC Director Marc Sprenger highlighted these challenges and encouraged countries to maintain investment in public health and to work toward smarter and better cooperation.

ECDC_ArticleDate/Deadline: 05/04/2011 00:00

ECDC_Abstract:

Today, the impact of vaccines on Public Health is at the centre of the discussions in the conference organised by the European Society of Clinical Microbiology and Infectious Diseases (ESCMID) in Prague. This conference brought together experts to debate the many-sided correlations between vaccines, medicine and society at the dawn of the third millennium.

ECDC_ArticleDate/Deadline: 01/04/2011 00:00

ECDC_Abstract: From 1 April 2011, nearly six years after it became operational, ECDC changes its organisational structure. The reorganisation aims at a greater flexibility towards newly arising priorities and further strengthening the disease-specific work at ECDC.

ECDC_ArticleDate/Deadline: 31/03/2011 00:00

ECDC_Abstract: ECDC has been honoured to receive the 2011 Anders Gustâv  Minnesfond Award. The award of SEK 50 000 kr was received by ECDC Director Marc Sprenger in a ceremony at ECDC’s premises in Solna on 30 March.

ECDC_ArticleDate/Deadline: 30/03/2011 00:00

ECDC_Abstract:

ECDC Director Marc Sprenger and WHO/Europe Regional Director Zsuzsanna Jakab have signed an Administrative Agreement between ECDC and WHO/Europe during the 8th Senior Officials Meeting of the European Commission (EC) and World Health Organisation (WHO), held in Brussels on 24-25 March 2011.

ECDC_ArticleDate/Deadline: 29/03/2011 00:00

ECDC_Abstract: ECDC and EFSA have just launched the annual report on zoonoses and food-borne outbreaks in the European Union for 2009. The report shows that Salmonella cases in humans fell by 17% in 2009, marking a decrease for the fifth consecutive year. The reduction targets set by the European Commission to reduce the spread of Salmonella in poultry, particularly through eggs and chicken meat are, according to the report, likely to be the main reasons for the reduction in the number of human cases. However, Salmonella remained the most frequent cause of food-borne outbreaks and was found most frequently in chicken, turkey and pig meat.

ECDC_ArticleDate/Deadline: 23/03/2011 00:00

ECDC_Abstract: A new report, Tuberculosis surveillance in Europe 2009, a joint publication from ECDC and the WHO Regional Office for Europe provides evidence for concern about the spread of multi-drug resistant tuberculosis (MDR TB) and the persistence of TB among children.

ECDC_ArticleDate/Deadline: 18/03/2011 00:00

ECDC_Abstract: Vaccination helps to prevent diseases and, above all, saves lives. This was the message at an expert meeting on childhood immunisation organised by the Hungarian Presidency. ECDC Director Marc Sprenger stressed the importance of successful vaccination programmes across Europe and future challenges.

ECDC_ArticleDate/Deadline: 14/03/2011 00:00

ECDC_Abstract: ECDC launches an open electronic tutorial on Epidemic Intelligence (EI) activities, available online. The tutorial presents the various Epidemic Intelligence (EI) steps and aims to support building up and improving capacities on EI on both national and international context.

ECDC_ArticleDate/Deadline: 08/03/2011 00:00

ECDC_Abstract: The European Public Health Microbiology Training (EUPHEM) call for fellows opens today. The programme, coordinated and funded by ECDC, will recruit 4 fellows for a two-year training programme in public health microbiology.

ECDC_ArticleDate/Deadline: 03/02/2011 00:00

ECDC_Abstract: The European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) and ECDC have published a joint opinion providing an overview of the latest available scientific information on possible links between Transmissible Spongiform Encephalopathies (TSEs) in animals and humans. This is the first comprehensive review of epidemiological and laboratory studies on possible links between TSEs in animals and humans at EU level.

ECDC_ArticleDate/Deadline: 26/01/2011 00:00

ECDC_Abstract: Today, the European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control (ECDC) published its initial Risk Assessment on this season’s influenza in Europe. The report analyses the main features, risks to human health and likely course of the 2010/2011 influenza season in Europe. 

ECDC_ArticleDate/Deadline: 25/01/2011 00:00

ECDC_Abstract: The European Programme for Intervention Epidemiology Training (EPIET) call for fellows is now open.  The programme, coordinated and funded by ECDC, will select up to 18 fellows for a two-year training in communicable disease field epidemiology. Deadline for application is 6 February 2011.

ECDC_ArticleDate/Deadline: 24/01/2011 00:00

ECDC_Abstract: The European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control (ECDC)  and the European Medicines Agency have signed a working arrangement, which aims to enhance co-operation and mutual consultation between the two Agencies on areas of common interest.

ECDC_ArticleDate/Deadline: 22/12/2010 15:00

ECDC_Abstract: Through European surveillance and formal notification from the Community Network on surveillance and control of communicable diseases we are aware that influenza transmission is now picking up across the European Union. In particular, in the first affected country, the UK, there have been some cases of severely affected people due to influenza A (H1N1)2009 and B virus infections, with some fatalities. None of the fatal cases to date had a record of vaccination with the 2009 pandemic vaccine or the 2010 seasonal influenza vaccine.

ECDC_ArticleDate/Deadline: 22/12/2010 00:00

ECDC_Abstract: ECDC organises a briefing on preparedness and response activities, combined with a workshop ‘Detection and assessment of public health threats in the European Union’, from 7 to 11 March 2011, in Stockholm.  Registration is now open, deadline: 21 January 2011.

ECDC_ArticleDate/Deadline: 14/12/2010 00:00

ECDC_Abstract:

To mark World AIDS Day on 1 December, ECDC launches a set of guidance documents on HIV testing and the report on HIV/AIDS surveillance in Europe. All documents will be presented by ECDC Director Marc Sprenger during a scientific seminar at the European Parliament in Brussels.

ECDC_ArticleDate/Deadline: 01/12/2010 00:00

ECDC_Abstract:

On the occasion of the European Antibiotic Awareness Day, ECDC is releasing new European-wide surveillance data on antibiotic resistance from the European Antimicrobial Resistance Surveillance Network (EARS-Net).
EAAD Multimedia News release

ECDC_ArticleDate/Deadline: 23/11/2010 00:00

ECDC_Abstract:

Representatives of the European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control (ECDC) will visit the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) on Wednesday, 24 November.

ECDC_ArticleDate/Deadline: 22/11/2010 00:00

ECDC_Abstract: ECDC launches ‘Progressing towards TB elimination’, a follow-up report to the Framework Action Plan to fight Tuberculosis in the European Union. This special report is aimed at providing a monitoring framework that can be used to assess Europe’s progress towards the elimination of TB.

ECDC_ArticleDate/Deadline: 15/11/2010 00:00

ECDC_Abstract: The fourth edition of the Annual Epidemiological Report on Communicable Diseases in Europe provides a comprehensive summary of surveillance data for 2008. The data presented show that EU citizens, in general, enjoy a high level of protection against infectious diseases. For some diseases further joint actions (e.g. through vaccination and similar control measures) could lead to the EU, and eventually Europe, being declared ‘free’ of the disease, as is the case for several vaccine preventable diseases.

ECDC_ArticleDate/Deadline: 15/11/2010 00:00

ECDC_Abstract: The call for submitting Eurovaccine abstracts for its virtual poster session is extended until 22 November 2010.

ECDC_ArticleDate/Deadline: 14/11/2010 00:00

ECDC_Abstract:

Communication strategies which recognize that health literacy is context and content specific are essential to approach a diverse Europe. This was one of the main conclusions drawn from the ECDC`s workshop at the 3rd European Public Health Conference (EUPHA) in Amsterdam.

ECDC_ArticleDate/Deadline: 14/11/2010 00:00

ECDC_Abstract: Public health experts meet at the European Scientific Conference on Applied Infectious Disease Epidemiology (ESCAIDE) to present and discuss important developments in infectious disease epidemiology from 11-13 November 2010 in Lisbon.

ECDC_ArticleDate/Deadline: 11/11/2010 00:00

ECDC_Abstract:

ECDC invites scientists with relevant expertise to apply to participate in ECDC’s scientific panels and working groups and assist the Centre in its activities.

ECDC_ArticleDate/Deadline: 10/11/2010 00:00

ECDC_Abstract: Europe is now approaching the first winter season after the 2009 pandemic influenza. What can we expect? Has anything changed with seasonal influenza? What can people do to protect themselves and others?

ECDC_ArticleDate/Deadline: 09/11/2010 00:00

ECDC_Abstract: A field epidemiology manual (FEM) training resource, also known as the FEMwiki project, will be launched and be opened to the public at the European Scientific Conference on Applied Infectious Disease Epidemiology (ESCAIDE) on 11-13 November 2010 in Lisbon, Portugal.

ECDC_ArticleDate/Deadline: 09/11/2010 00:00

ECDC_Abstract: With overwhelming support, on 9 November 2010, the ECDC Management Board re-elected Professor Dr Hubert Hrabcik as Chair and Professor Dr Jacques Scheres as Deputy Chair for a second term.

ECDC_ArticleDate/Deadline: 09/11/2010 00:00

ECDC_Abstract: The first conference on Immunisation Information Systems and Immunisation registers, co-sponsored by ECDC, will be held on 7-8 December 2010 in Stockholm, Sweden.

ECDC_ArticleDate/Deadline: 08/11/2010 00:00

ECDC_Abstract:

ECDC presents its most recent guidance on public health management of sporadic cases of invasive meningococcal disease (IMD). The purpose of this document is to provide evidence-based guidance for good practice in public health management of sporadic cases of meningococcal disease and their contacts.

ECDC_ArticleDate/Deadline: 29/10/2010 09:00

ECDC_Abstract: ECDC releases today two new reports on hepatitis B and C entitled ‘Surveillance and prevention of hepatitis B and C in Europe’ and ‘Hepatitis B and C in the EU neighbourhood: prevalence, burden of disease and screening policies’.

ECDC_ArticleDate/Deadline: 12/10/2010 00:00

ECDC_Abstract: Closing the Summit Conference on Hepatitis B and C in Brussels today, ECDC Director Marc Sprenger outlined the challenges these viruses pose to public health in Europe.

ECDC_ArticleDate/Deadline: 06/10/2010 17:00

ECDC_Abstract: The new ‘Spotlight: Surveillance’ presents an overview of ECDC’s surveillance activities, explains the finer points of disease surveillance, and shows how data are collected and used in order to provide a maximum of protection for European citizens and their families.

ECDC_ArticleDate/Deadline: 06/10/2010 11:00

ECDC_Abstract:

ECDC’s latest publication delivers a host of information on the Centre’s work on disease threats: the all-new ‘Annual Threat Report – 2009’ describes in detail and supported by statistical data how epidemic intelligence officers at ECDC responded to the 192 distinct threats monitored in 2009.

ECDC_ArticleDate/Deadline: 06/10/2010 10:00

ECDC_Abstract: This year, ECDC is organising and hosting the second ECDC-Eurovaccine to be held  on 10 December 2010 in Stockholm, Sweden.

ECDC_ArticleDate/Deadline: 04/10/2010 10:00

ECDC_Abstract: The 7^th meeting of the National Microbiology Focal Points – the designated ECDC representatives for public health microbiology in the Member States, EEA and candidate countries, will take place in Stockholm on 19-20 October.

ECDC_ArticleDate/Deadline: 03/10/2010 12:00

ECDC_Abstract:

Experts from EU Member states can now register for two new training events organised by ECDC: a one-day workshop on “outbreak investigation reports” and a one-week training course “Managerial aspects of outbreak investigations”.

ECDC_ArticleDate/Deadline: 01/10/2010 09:00

ECDC_Abstract: On 28 September, Dr Marc Sprenger, ECDC Director, gave evidence to the WHO's International Health Regulations (IHR) Review Committee and adressed key lessons learned from the pandemic.

ECDC_ArticleDate/Deadline: 28/09/2010 00:00

ECDC_Abstract:

On Tuesday August 10, 2010, following advice from the International Health Regulation Emergency Committee the WHO Director General declared that the Pandemic (H1N1) 2009 has entered the post pandemic phase.

This advice was based on a review of the current epidemiological situation indicating that influenza activity worldwide has returned to levels that are normally seen for seasonal influenza.

ECDC_ArticleDate/Deadline: 10/09/2010 17:00

ECDC_Abstract: The call for abstracts for the Late Breaker session for ESCAIDE 2010 is now open and will close on 24th September 2010. This year’s key conference on infectious diseases will bring together professionals from across the globe to present and discuss important developments in infectious disease epidemiology. It will take place on 11-13 November in Lisbon, Portugal.

ECDC_ArticleDate/Deadline: 09/09/2010 00:00

ECDC_Abstract: The 2010 progress report on Implementing the Dublin Declaration on Partnership to Fight HIV/AIDS in Europe and Central Asia was released by ECDC on 28 September 2010.

ECDC_ArticleDate/Deadline: 09/09/2010 00:00

ECDC_Abstract: A summary of the 2010 progress report on Implementing the Dublin Declaration on Partnership to Fight HIV/AIDS in Europe and Central Asia was released by ECDC at the occasion of the World Aids Conference on 20 July 2010.

ECDC_ArticleDate/Deadline: 20/07/2010 00:00

ECDC_Abstract: ECDC Director, Dr Marc Sprenger, contributed to the informal session of EU Ministers of Health on how Europe can be better prepared for health security crises. (Picture shows ECDC Director Dr Marc Sprenger participating at the EPSCO Council meeting in Brussels)

ECDC_ArticleDate/Deadline: 07/07/2010 00:00

ECDC_Abstract: Registration is now open for ESCAIDE (European Scientific Conference on Applied Infectious Disease Epidemiology). This year’s key conference on infectious diseases will bring together professionals from across the globe to present and discuss important developments in infectious disease epidemiology. It will take place on 11-13 November 2010 in Lisbon, Portugal.

ECDC_ArticleDate/Deadline: 27/06/2010 00:00

ECDC_Abstract:

European Commissioner for Health and Consumer Policy John Dalli visited ECDC on 22 June 2010. The programme of the Commissioner’s visit included presentations of the ECDC’s added value and areas where ECDC is making a difference, as well as a tour of its Emergency Operations Centre. Photo: Commissioner Dalli (left) with ECDC Director Marc Sprenger.

ECDC_ArticleDate/Deadline: 24/06/2010 00:00

ECDC_Abstract: The new communication toolkit on tick-borne diseases developed by ECDC aims to assist public health authorities in Member States in raising awareness on prevention and control of tick-borne diseases.

ECDC_ArticleDate/Deadline: 14/06/2010 00:00

ECDC_Abstract:

During the Annual Meeting of the European Influenza Surveillance Network (EISN), participants concluded that based on “countries’ experiences, systems installed prior to a crisis are easier to activate and are more effective during the actual event.”

ECDC_ArticleDate/Deadline: 11/06/2010 00:00

ECDC_Abstract: ESCAIDE, this year’s key conference on infectious diseases, will bring together professionals from across the globe to present and discuss important developments in infectious disease epidemiology. It will take place in Lisbon, Portugal 11-13 November 2010.

ECDC_ArticleDate/Deadline: 10/06/2010 00:00

ECDC_ArticleDate/Deadline: 09/06/2010 00:00

ECDC_Abstract:

Although typically a mild and self-limiting disease, Q fever can cause severe complications. A panel of experts reviewed the best available evidence in order to address issues related to chronic Q fever, transmission through blood transfusion, and risks during pregnancy.

This risk assessment was carried out at the request of the European Commission, and in collaboration with the European Food Safety Authority.

ECDC_ArticleDate/Deadline: 07/06/2010 00:00

ECDC_Abstract: Microbiology reference laboratories, as a part of public health systems, play a central role in detection, monitoring, outbreak response, and providing scientific evidence to prevent and control infectious diseases.

ECDC_ArticleDate/Deadline: 06/06/2010 00:00

ECDC_Abstract: On 6 June 2010, ECDC Director, Dr. Marc Sprenger, spoke about new research challenges in the area of infectious diseases at the Shanghai Expo seminar on Research for Healthy Life. According to Marc Sprenger, the research agenda on infectious diseases needs to be wider than just biomedical research.

ECDC_ArticleDate/Deadline: 05/06/2010 00:00

ECDC_Abstract: 19 May 2010 marks the third World Hepatitis day, a patient-led initiative, under the umbrella of the World Hepatitis Alliance (WHA) which represents 200 patients groups and organisations. The aim of the initiative is to raise awareness of issues around hepatitis B and C, as well as advocating for political support in fighting these diseases.

ECDC_ArticleDate/Deadline: 19/05/2010 00:00

ECDC_Abstract:

Dr Marc Sprenger has been appointed to lead the European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control (ECDC). Dr Sprenger was Director-General of the National Institute for Public Health and the Environment (RIVM) in the Netherlands. He took up his post as Director of the Stockholm based EU agency on 1 May for a period of 5 years.
Figure: Marc Sprenger (left) and Karl Ekdahl (right)

ECDC_ArticleDate/Deadline: 30/04/2010 00:00

ECDC_Abstract: To tie in with the European Immunization Week, Eurosurveillance the independent scientific journal published by the ECDC, has released a special issue on measles. The issue presents three articles describing recent measles outbreaks and resulting public health measures in Poland, and a paper from the United Kingdom analysing the benefits of offering an MMR catch-up dose as part of routine school leaver's immunisations.

ECDC_ArticleDate/Deadline: 29/04/2010 00:00

ECDC_Abstract:

In the context of European Immunisation Week (24 April – 1 May) ECDC highlights the importance of vaccines as a powerful tool to protect our health. The “Spotlight Immunisation” guides readers through the achievements of vaccination programmes in Europe.

ECDC_ArticleDate/Deadline: 26/04/2010 09:00

ECDC_Abstract:

ECDC has launched a new programme to train public health microbiologists known as EUPHEM. Applicants are invited to apply for a fellow position for EUPHEM Cohort 3. The deadline is on 25 April 2010.

ECDC_ArticleDate/Deadline: 14/04/2010 00:00

ECDC_Abstract: In June 2010, the FIFA World Cup will start in South Africa and be hosted in eight of the nine provinces of the country. Mass gathering events of this scale are significant as the opportunity for disease spread and infection is heightened as people travel from all parts of the globe.

ECDC_ArticleDate/Deadline: 14/04/2010 00:00

ECDC_Abstract: Today, the European Commission published two reports which demonstrate the need for further progress in the European Union on the issue of anti microbial resistance.

ECDC_ArticleDate/Deadline: 09/04/2010 00:00

ECDC_Abstract:

ECDC, jointly with WHO Regional Office for Europe and the European Commission, has published a set of pandemic preparedness indicators.

ECDC_ArticleDate/Deadline: 28/03/2010 00:00

ECDC_Abstract:

Applications are invited for the European Network for sexually transmitted infection (STI) Surveillance microbiology training course on bacterial STI laboratory methods. The one week course will be delivered on 7 – 11 June 2010 by the Health Protection Agency (HPA) in London, United Kingdom. Deadline for registration: 20 April 2010.

ECDC_ArticleDate/Deadline: 27/03/2010 00:00

ECDC_Abstract: On 1 April 2010, ECDC launched the European Legionnaires’ Disease Surveillance Network (ELDSNet) as a continuation of the former EWGLINET.

ECDC_ArticleDate/Deadline: 27/03/2010 00:00

ECDC_ArticleDate/Deadline: 27/03/2010 00:00

ECDC_Abstract: ECDC is hosting the sixth meeting of the National Microbiology Focal Points on 24-25 March in Stockholm, Sweden. The forum, to be attended by designated ECDC representatives for microbiology issues in Member States, will review joint technical work, discuss strategic issues and work planning.

ECDC_ArticleDate/Deadline: 25/03/2010 00:00

ECDC_Abstract: In the run up of world tuberculosis day on 24 March 2010, the Koch-Metschnikow-Forum holds a scientific symposium on tuberculosis (TB) in Berlin on 22 and 23 March. The symposium entitled On the move against tuberculosis: Exchange of expertise in fighting multidrug resistance and HIV-TB coinfection, commemorates the 100th anniversary of Robert Koch’s death.

ECDC_ArticleDate/Deadline: 24/03/2010 00:00

ECDC_Abstract: On 10–12 March, ECDC will participate in the Fifth Ministerial Conference on Environment and Health on 'Protecting children’s health in a changing environment' in Parma, Italy.

ECDC_ArticleDate/Deadline: 10/03/2010 00:00

ECDC_Abstract: On 9-10 March 2010, ECDC is organising a technical meeting on “Developing Health Communication Research: A focus on Communicable Diseases – Challenges and Opportunities”. This expert consultation brings together researchers on health communication from EU countries and North America.

ECDC_ArticleDate/Deadline: 07/03/2010 00:00

ECDC_Abstract: On 1–2 March 2010, ECDC is organising a workshop on migration and HIV.

ECDC_ArticleDate/Deadline: 01/03/2010 00:00

ECDC_Abstract: Update: deadline extended until 4 March 2010. The course, which is taking place 19-23 April 2010 in London, UK, will cover various aspects of vaccination. The course is targeted at epidemiologists/public health experts from EU Member States, EU candidate countries and EEA/EFTA countries, involved in surveillance and/or outbreak investigation of vaccine preventable diseases and related issues. Deadline for registration: 4 March 2010 at 23:00 CET.

ECDC_ArticleDate/Deadline: 23/02/2010 01:00

ECDC_Abstract: ECDC hosts the first meeting of the Stop TB Partnership subgroup on Introducing New Approaches and Tools (INAT) for Tuberculosis on 23 and 24 February 2010. Recognising the urgent need for new tools to control tuberculosis (TB) both in the European Union and globally, ECDC is an active member of the INAT-subgroup.

ECDC_ArticleDate/Deadline: 21/02/2010 00:00

ECDC_Abstract: The heads of European Union Agencies met today with European Commission President José Manuel Barroso.

ECDC_ArticleDate/Deadline: 17/02/2010 00:00

ECDC_Abstract: VBORNET invites experts to contribute to the development of databases and maps on vector distribution and surveillance in Europe. Those willing to collaborate are invited to download the customised vector-distribution questionnaire from the VBORNET mirror-page on the EDEN-DMT website.

ECDC_ArticleDate/Deadline: 31/01/2010 00:00

ECDC_Abstract: On 28 January 2010 the European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control (ECDC) and the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) launched their annual report on zoonoses and food-borne outbreaks for 2008.

ECDC_ArticleDate/Deadline: 28/01/2010 17:00

ECDC_Abstract: The European Programme for Intervention Epidemiology Training (EPIET) provides training and practical experience in intervention epidemiology at the national centres for surveillance and control of communicable diseases in the European Union (EU). In 2010 ECDC will have funding for up to 18 EPIET fellows.
Applicants are invited to apply for a fellow position in the EPIET cohort 16.
Deadline for applications is February 07, 2010 CET 24:00.
Apply for a fellow position

ECDC_ArticleDate/Deadline: 28/01/2010 00:00

ECDC_Abstract: 28 January 2010 was the last working day for Zsuzsanna Jakab as Director of the European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control (ECDC), the Stockholm based EU agency she has led since it started up in 2005.  On 1 February Zsuzsanna Jakab started work in Copenhagen as the new Regional Director for Europe of the World Health Organization (WHO). 

ECDC_ArticleDate/Deadline: 27/01/2010 16:00

ECDC_Abstract: The Heads of the EU agencies will meet on 17 February with European Commission President José Manuel Barroso to discuss ways to strengthen their partnership with the European Commission, the European Parliament and the Council and to share their views on the EU’s future approach to the governance of the Agencies.

ECDC_ArticleDate/Deadline: 27/01/2010 00:00

ECDC_Abstract: Margot Wallström, Vice President of the European Commission took time out of her schedule to visit ECDC on Monday, 25 January.  She was briefed on the Centre's work by Director Zsuzsanna Jakab, Chief Scientist Johan Giesecke and Karl Ekdahl, Head of the Health Communication Unit.

ECDC_ArticleDate/Deadline: 26/01/2010 12:00

ECDC_Abstract: ECDC hosted the launch of the European Reference Laboratory Network for Tuberculosis (ERLN-TB) on 25 January 2010 at its first annual meeting in Stockholm, Sweden. Reference laboratories representatives from EU/EEA Member States and candidate countries will engage in an unprecedented initiative in the field of tuberculosis control in the EU.

ECDC_ArticleDate/Deadline: 25/01/2010 12:00

ECDC_Abstract:

Following the kick-off meeting in September 2009, VBORNET started its activities. VBORNET is a network of medical entomologists and public health experts, funded by ECDC. Its aim is to support ECDC activities in terms of arthropod vector surveillance within the European Union and consequently to improve preparedness towards vector-borne diseases.

ECDC_ArticleDate/Deadline: 16/12/2009 00:00

ECDC_Abstract:

Eurovaccine 2009, the first European conference on vaccination and immunisation organised and fully funded by the European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control (ECDC) was held in Stockholm, Sweden, on 11 December 2009.

ECDC_ArticleDate/Deadline: 14/12/2009 15:00

ECDC_Abstract: On 1 December ECDC, together with the Swedish Presidency, organised a scientific seminar at the European Parliament to mark World AIDS Day. The event was co-hosted by Mr Jo Leinen MEP, Chair of the ENVI Committee, and Ms Marina Yannakoudakis MEP. The seminar aimed at briefing policy makers on the HIV/AIDS situation in Europe with a special focus on men who have sex with men, one of the main risk groups for HIV in the European Union.

ECDC_ArticleDate/Deadline: 03/12/2009 17:00

ECDC_Abstract:

At the EPSCO Council in Brussels on 1 December ECDC Director Zsuzsanna Jakab gave EU health ministers an update on the state of the (H1N1) influenza pandemic in the European Union. 

 See her presentation

ECDC_ArticleDate/Deadline: 02/12/2009 17:00

ECDC_Abstract:

The course will be delivered from 15th February to 5th March 2010 in France and will cover the following topics: surveillance, outbreak investigation, survey, analytical epidemiology  and communication.

The target audience for the course are persons involved in field epidemiology activities at national or regional level in the European Union, EU candidate countries and the EEA/EFTA countries. The deadline for registration is December 6, 2009 at 23:00 CET.

ECDC_ArticleDate/Deadline: 02/12/2009 08:00

ECDC_Abstract:

Nearly 26 000 HIV cases were diagnosed in 2008 and reported by 27 of 30 countries in the European Union and EEA/EFTA countries, a rate of 61 per million population. The rate has increased by 37% since 2000. In EU/EFTA, the predominant mode of transmission is sex among men who have sex with men (40%) followed by heterosexual contact (29%). Injecting drug use accounts for 6% of HIV cases in 2008.

Read the report
World AIDS Day special page
Watch the video

ECDC_ArticleDate/Deadline: 01/12/2009 00:00

ECDC_Abstract: On Friday 27 November, ahead of World AIDS Day on 1st December, ECDC and the National Board of Health and Welfare in Sweden organises a seminar on HIV/AIDS with a focus on stigma and discrimination.

ECDC_ArticleDate/Deadline: 25/11/2009 09:00

ECDC_Abstract: Mass gatherings can present significant challenges for public health and health care services. Particular difficulties and anxieties may arise during a pandemic. The coming annual Hajj to Saudi Arabia is a case in point and recent WHO publications explain the issues and describe the travel requirements of the Saudi Authorities.

ECDC_ArticleDate/Deadline: 24/11/2009 08:00

ECDC_Abstract: Eurovaccine 2009, the first European conference on vaccination and immunisation organised and fully funded by the European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control (ECDC) will be held in Stockholm, Sweden, on 11 December 2009. Register online now.

ECDC_ArticleDate/Deadline: 20/11/2009 11:55

ECDC_Abstract:

European Antibiotic Awareness Day emphasises the need for people to take antibiotics only with a doctor’s prescription and as prescribed in order to maximise their effects and prevent the emergence of resistant bacteria. In 2009, European Antibiotics Awareness Day focuses on the role of primary care prescribers in promoting appropriate use of antibiotics in outpatients, with particular attention on respiratory tract infections such as common colds and flu.

See the multimedia news release
Read Zsuzsanna Jakab’s  (ECDC Director) presentation
Read Prof. Otto Cars’ (STRAMA) presentation

ECDC_ArticleDate/Deadline: 20/11/2009 10:00

ECDC_Abstract: A team of ECDC experts has concluded that  the threat to health posed by the A(H1N1) pandemic influenza virus in Bulgaria is not substantially different to that in other EU Member States.   The clinical pattern of disease appears to be similar to that in other EU countries, with most affected people only experiencing mild illness.  However, a number of people have been very seriously ill.  While there is no reason for undue alarm, the virus should not be under estimated.

ECDC_ArticleDate/Deadline: 20/11/2009 09:00

ECDC_Abstract: ECDC Director Zsuzsanna Jakab today delivered a keynote lecture at a national conference on pandemic preparedness opened by the Hungarian Minister for Health, Dr. Tamás Székely, in Budapest. 

ECDC_ArticleDate/Deadline: 12/11/2009 14:00

ECDC_Abstract: ECDC welcomes the establishment of an EU/US transatlantic taskforce on antibiotic resistance issues, focussed on appropriate use of antibiotics and strategies for improving the pipeline of new antibiotics.

ECDC_ArticleDate/Deadline: 05/11/2009 11:00

ECDC_Abstract: Public health specialists meet in Stockholm from October 26th to 28th for the third annual ESCAIDE, the European Scientific Conference on Applied Infectious Disease Epidemiology. At the conference experts will discuss many issues including vaccine strategies, prioritization and the challenges for risk communication in the context of pandemic A(H1N1) 20009.

ECDC_ArticleDate/Deadline: 26/10/2009 08:00

ECDC_Abstract: Dengue is present in sub-Saharan Africa but often unrecognised; however dengue infection is reported in travellers returning from Africa. In the recent years 2007-2009, dengue has been documented in several countries in West Africa, and particularly DEN3 virus.

ECDC_ArticleDate/Deadline: 26/10/2009 00:00

ECDC_Abstract:

The third annual report on the epidemiology of 47 communicable diseases and two health issues across the European Union and European Economic Area has been published.

The result of a collective effort by 30 countries, it presents a comprehensive overview of the data from 2007 in standard tables and graphs, together with an analysis of the health threats monitored by ECDC during 2008.

ECDC_ArticleDate/Deadline: 21/10/2009 12:00

ECDC_Abstract: On 12-14 October senior public health officials from across Europe met in Uppsala, Sweden for ECDC’s conference Strengthening Europe's Defences against Communicable Diseases  The meeting generated much useful debate and feedback on how to work together even more effectively.

ECDC_ArticleDate/Deadline: 15/10/2009 12:00

ECDC_Abstract: On 12-14 October senior health officials from across Europe gather in Uppsala, Sweden to discuss how to further strengthen Europe’s defences against infectious diseases. They will look at the EU-wide response to the pandemic H1N1 2009 and the implications of climate change for infectious diseases.

ECDC_ArticleDate/Deadline: 12/10/2009 16:00

ECDC_Abstract: The meeting took place at ECDC on 1st and 2nd October 2009. The National Microbiology Focal Points are the designated ECDC competent representatives for Microbiology Issues in the Member States.

ECDC_ArticleDate/Deadline: 30/09/2009 17:45

ECDC_Abstract: Zsuzsanna Jakab, ECDC Director, outlined the links between alcohol consumption and infectious diseases in a speech to a Swedish EU Presidency conference in Stockholm.  Alcohol consumption is an important risk factor for tuberculosis and also plays a role in the spread of sexually transmitted infections.  Mrs Jakab called for an integrated public health strategy to tackle all aspects of alcohol related harm.

ECDC_ArticleDate/Deadline: 23/09/2009 13:00

ECDC_Abstract: On 31st August 2009, the U.S. Centre for Disease Control and Prevention and the European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control held a joint video conference to discuss the pandemic (H1N1) 2009.

ECDC_ArticleDate/Deadline: 22/09/2009 17:00

ECDC_Abstract: Health-EU portal has launched a special edition of its newsletter on Pandemic H1N1. You can find a message by Androulla Vassiliou, the European Commissioner for Health and by Zsuzsanna Jakab, ECDC Director, the latest updates and the news from Member States.

ECDC_ArticleDate/Deadline: 22/09/2009 00:00

ECDC_Abstract: There is a need for more development of antibiotics that are effective against multidrug-resistant bacteria. That is the conclusion of a new report prepared jointly by the European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control (ECDC) and the European Medicines Agency (EMEA) with contributions from the international network Action on Antibiotic Resistance (ReAct).

The report is being discussed today at the Swedish Presidency conference “Innovative incentives for effective antimicrobials” in Stockholm.

ECDC_ArticleDate/Deadline: 17/09/2009 09:00