ECDC is an EU agency aimed at strengthening Europe's defences against infectious diseases. The core functions cover a wide spectrum of activities: surveillance, epidemic intelligence, response, scientific advice, microbiology, preparedness, public health training, international relations, health communication, and the scientific journal Eurosurveillance.

ECDC disease programmes cover antimicrobial resistance and healthcare-associated infections; emerging and vector-borne diseases; food- and waterborne diseases and zoonoses; HIV, sexually transmitted infections and viral hepatitis; influenza and other respiratory viruses; tuberculosis; and vaccine-preventable diseases.

In 2019, ECDC continues to contribute to health security, giving particular attention to the following areas:

• Tackle antimicrobial resistance
• Improve vaccine coverage in the EU
• Support the European Commission and the Member States in addressing the Sustainable Development Goals in the area of HIV, TB and hepatitis
• Further support the European Commission and the Member States in strengthening the preparedness for cross-border health threats
• Focus on strategic partnerships to create synergy and avoid duplication of work
• Further enhance ECDC’s operational performance and monitoring.