ECDC is an EU agency purposed at strengthening Europe’s defenses against infectious diseases. The core functions cover a large spectrum of activities: surveillance, epidemic intelligence, response, scientific advice, microbiology, preparedness, public health training, international relations, health communication, and the scientific journal Eurosurveillance. ECDC disease programs cover antimicrobial resistance and healthcare-associated infections; emerging and vector-borne diseases; food- and waterborne diseases and zoonoses; HIV, sexually transmitted infections and viral hepatitis; influenza and other respiratory viruses; tuberculosis; and vaccine-preventable diseases.

In 2019, ECDC maintenance to contribute to health security, giving particular attention to the following fields:

• Tackle antimicrobial resistance
• Develop vaccine coverage in the EU
• Support the European Commission and the Member States in addressing the Sustainable Development Aims in the area of HIV, TB, and hepatitis
• Further, assist the European Commission and the Member States in strengthening the preparedness for cross-border health threats
• Concentrated strategic partnerships to create synergy and avoid duplication of work

  Within the areas of its mission, the Centre shall:

  • Search for, collect, collate, evaluate and disseminate relevant scientific and technical data;
  • supply scientific opinions and scientific and technical assistance including training;
  • supply timely information to the Commission, the Member States, Community agencies and international organizations active within the area of public health;
  • coordinate the European networking of bodies operating in the areas within the Centre’s mission, including networks that emerge from public health activities assisted by the Commission and operating the dedicated surveillance networks;
  • exchange information, expertise and best practices, and facilitate the development and implementation of joint actions.