The Commission has yesterday adopted an implementing regulation, which lays down the necessary procedures for the Health Security Committee (HSC) to exchange information, consult and coordinate responses to cross-border health threats. Member States are required to inform, consult and coordinate on the adoption or termination of any public health measures linked to a serious cross-border threats within set timelines. The Early Warning and Response System (EWRS) is the primary tool for requests and exchanges to take place.
The steps to be taken during each of the following stages are laid down in dedicated articles:
- A request for consultation and coordination
- Exchange of information
- Consultation and coordination of response
- Risk and crisis communication
- Support for the EU Integrated Political Crisis Response (IPCR) arrangements
The regulation was published in the Official Journal of the European Union today and will enter into force twenty days later.
Background information
The EU’s rapid response to serious cross-border threats to health is coordinated by the EU Health Security Committee (HSC). The HSC is comprised of representatives of EU countries’ health authorities together with EEA countries. This formation allows the Commission to work closely with all EU countries and to ensure a coherent and well-coordinated response.
