Communication on short-term EU health preparedness for future COVID-19 outbreaks

This communication aims at ensuring the European Union's (EU) short-term health preparedness in case of further COVID-19 outbreaks in Europe. It draws particular attention to the need to reduce the burden of the 2020/2021 seasonal flu, so to mitigate the additional strain on health systems should this coincide with a further outbreak of COVID-19. For each domain, this Communication draws on the main lessons learned, positive and negative, and outlines key measures to be taken in the coming months.

This will require strong coordination and exchange of information in and between the Member States and communities as well as commitment to implement these measures, which are a national competence. Experience has shown that coordinating actions with neighbours and at the EU level is vital. Containment and management of any new outbreaks will also require continued cooperation and support to the EU’s immediate neighbourhood and beyond. Therefore, where appropriate and feasible, as stated in this document, the Commission will associate the Western Balkans, the Neighbourhood countries and other partner countries with the actions proposed in this document.