2007

Author(s): Apfel F

This report presents the key findings and discussions from a meeting organised by the European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control (ECDC), in collaboration with the WHO Regional Office for Europe (WHO EURO), the European Environment Agency (EEA), and the Joint Research Centre (JRC) at Ispra. The aim of the meeting was to review evidence related to the implications of global climate and ecological change on the communicable disease burden of Europe, assess the preparedness of health systems, develop scientific advice, identify research needs, and make recommendations to Member States. The meeting brought together key scientists, researchers, public health practitioners, public health advocates, environment advocates and representatives from relevant European Union institutions and other international organisations. This report is divided into three sections, roughly corresponding to the structure of the meeting. Section I (Chapters 1 and 2) introduces the European context for addressing climate change and health and reviews some of the more pertinent scientific evidence related to climate change in Europe. Section II (Chapters 3 and 4) explores the links between climate change and the spread of infectious disease in greater detail. Section III (Chapters 5 and 6) points out research gaps, recommends further public health research and proposes action based on the essential roles of public health.

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