Preparedness and response against diseases with epidemic potential in the European Union: a qualitative case study of Middle East Respiratory Syndrome (MERS) and poliomyelitis in five member states

• DOI: 10.1186/s12913-018-3326-0
• Publication Date: 2018-07-06T00:46:51Z
• Authors: John Kinsman; John Angrén; Fredrik Elgh; Maria Furberg; Paola A. Mosquera; Laura Otero-García; René Snacken; Tarik Derrough; Paloma Carrillo S...; Massimo Ciotti; Svetla Tsolova
• Keywords: Preparedness; Poliomyelitis eradication

EU Decision 1082/2013/EU on serious cross-border health threats provides a legal basis for collaboration between Member States, and international European level institutions preparedness, prevention, mitigation in the event of public emergency. The context present study, which aims to identify good practices lessons learned preparedness response Middle East Respiratory Syndrome (MERS) (in UK, Greece, Spain) poliomyelitis Poland Cyprus). Based documentary review, followed by five week-long country visits involving total 61 interviews group discussions with experts from both non-health sectors, this qualitative case study has investigated six issues related MERS poliomyelitis: national plans overall capacity; training exercises; risk communication; linking policy implementation; interoperability sectors; collaboration. Preparedness were place participating countries, high technical expertise available implement them. Nevertheless, formal evaluation responses previous emergencies have sometimes been limited, so may not be reflected updated plans, thereby risking mistakes being repeated future. nature extent inter-sectoral varied according sectors involved, those that traditionally had (e.g. animal food safety), as well financial incentive controlling infectious diseases agriculture, tourism, air travel) seen most likely integrated plans. Although protocols always up date, personal relations reported within relevant professional networks, could brought into play Cross-border was greatly facilitated if neighbouring fellow State. Infectious disease outbreaks remain an ongoing threat. Efforts are required ensure core capacities full range activities sustained.