ECDC Virtual Academy (EVA)

Technical ability to identify (possibly novel) pathogens, monitor antimicrobial resistance, and to handle large numbers of samples submitted for diagnostic purposes.

Ability to monitor chemical, biological (including animal), and other contaminants in air, soil, and water.

This section reflects Member States’ abilities to adapt existing authorities and policies to the new and emerging circumstances of a cross-border threat to health, and to enforce existing and new laws and regulations needed to implement these policies and regulations. The focus of these capabilities is at the national level, although it is recognised that a lack of consistency within Member States or among bordering Member States, can erode the public’s confidence. All of these activities require communication and coordination with a variety of actors at the global, European, national, and subnational levels, and these supporting capabilities are described below. The capabilities in this section and corresponding competencies deal with the development and implementation of substantive policies, regulations, and official guidance regarding infection control and disease treatment in clinical settings to population-based disease control activities.

Effective treatment and mitigation of an emergency can begin with clear policy directives and informed policy making. However, policies must be flexible and adaptable to accommodate for an evolving infection and/or emergency.