Infectious Diseases - Importance of Co-ordinated Activity in Europe

Abstract:

EASAC published on 14 June 2005 a report on infectious diseases and the need for co-ordinated activity in Europe. In the report EASAC describes major challenges facing Europe from newly-emerging and long-standing infectious diseases, for example, the threat of new influenza variants, novel microbes such as SARS, resurgent infections such as TB, growing antimicrobial resistance and the continuing threat of bioterrorism. There are key issues to resolve in terms of

• the opportunities for improved disease surveillance and public health infrastructure,
• the basic research agenda,
• support for the pharmaceutical and vaccine industry sectors,
• the needs of developing countries and newer EU member states,
• scientific responsibility, and
• public engagement.