Coronavirus resurgence – new preparedness and response measures for the EU (29/10/2020)

Faced with the sharp increase of cases across the EU, the European Commission asked Member States to step up measures on data sharing, well-targeted testing, contact tracing, vaccination campaigns and access to essential medical supplies such as vaccination equipment. The Commission will also invest €100 million in rapid antigen tests to distribute to Member States and extend VAT waivers for medical equipment. The measures were announced ahead of the European Council’s first virtual meeting on COVID-19 coordination on 29 October.

Building a European Health Union: Commission finalising its proposals (29/10/2020)

On 29 October, Commisisoner Kyriakides and Director-General for Health and Food Safety Sandra Gallina discussed the EU’s health response at a webinar. The Commission is working on proposals to strengthen the EU health security framework to improve EU preparedness and response. This includes strengthening the European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control (ECDC) and the European Medicines Agency (EMA), as well as a revamped legal framework for cross-border health threats.

COVID-19: Commission lists key vaccination steps (29/10/2020)

On 15 October, the European Commission presented the key elements to be taken into consideration by Member States for their COVID-19 vaccination strategies to prepare the EU and its citizens for when a safe and effective vaccine is available. This includes identifying the priority groups for vaccination.

COVID-19: Signature of a third contract for potential vaccine (29/10/2020)

On 21 October, the entry into force of a third contract with a pharmaceutical company, and the European Commission was confirmed. The agreement with Janssen Pharmaceutica NV will allow Member States to purchase vaccines for 200 million people with an option to purchase additional doses for an additional 200 million people. President of the European Commission, Ursula von der Leyen, said: “Our aim is to provide EU citizens with safe and effective vaccines as soon as they are found.”

COVID-19: EU interoperability gateway goes live (29/10/2020)

On 19 October, the European Commission, at the invitation of Member States, has set up an interoperability gateway service. The aim of the service is to exploit the full potential of contact tracing and warning apps to break the chain of coronavirus infections and save lives also cross-borders. After a successful pilot phase, the system went live with the first wave of national apps now being linked to the server: Germany’s Corona-Warn-App, Ireland’s COVID tracker and Italy’s immuni.

Mental Health Day (29/10/2020)

In what has been a challenging year amidst the COVID-19 pandemic, Stella Kyriakides, Commissioner for Health and Food Safety marked World Mental Health Day by calling for an increased awareness of the triggers which may negatively impact on our mental health: “The kaleidoscope of mental health challenges ranges from anxiety to loneliness and depression. We need to pay close attention to the signs our body gives us.” This year's World Mental Health Day is calling for increased investment in mental health and better access to services.

Farm to Fork 2020 Conference (29/10/2020)

On the 15 and 16 October, DG SANTE and DG AGRI together organised the first Farm to Fork conference entitled Building sustainable food systems together. Held on the occasion of World Food Day it brought together European stakeholders interested in helping to shape the EU’s path towards sustainable food systems. The conference was opened by the Executive Vice President Frans Timmermans and was hosted by the European Commissioner for Health & Food Safety, Stella Kyriakides, and the European Commissioner for Agriculture, Janusz Wojciechowski.

International Day for Awareness on Food Loss and Waste (29/10/2020)

The 29th of September was the first International Day for Awareness on Food Loss and Waste (IFLWDay), an issue which is a key component of the EU’s Farm to Fork Strategy. The European Commission contributed with a series of activities and social media actions in order to inform and engage citizens and stakeholders regarding food loss and waste prevention.

Publication of 2019 RASFF report (29/10/2020)

The 2019 report on the use of the Rapid Alert System for Food and Feed was published on 8 October. It shows that a total of 4118 notifications of food or feed risks were reported by the Member States to the European Commission last year. This is a slight rise from last year's Report, confirming that food operators and Member States are making an extensive use of the system.

11 November (29/10/2020)

Building a European Health Union: preparedness and resilience

16 November (29/10/2020)

AGRIFISH

18 November (29/10/2020)

European Antibiotic Awareness Day (EAAD)

18 November (29/10/2020)

European Cancer Summit 2020

24 November (29/10/2020)

Adoption of the Pharmaceutical Strategy

COVID-19: European Commission boosts its vaccines portfolio (29/09/2020)

This month saw the entry into force of the second contract between the European Commission and a vaccine producer. The contract with Sanofi-GSK will allow all Member States to purchase up to 300 million doses of the vaccine. The Commission had previously signed a contract with AstraZeneca and continue discussions with other vaccine manufacturers. President von der Leyen said: "With today's contract with Sanofi-GSK, the European Commission shows once again its commitment to ensuring equitable access to safe, effective and affordable vaccines…".

State of the European Union address: President calls for a “European Union of health” (29/09/2020)

On 16 September, President Ursula von der Leyen gave her first State of the European Union address at the European Parliament.The President took the opportunity to call for 'a stronger European Health Union' by strengthening crisis preparedness and management and establishing an agency for biomedical advanced research and development. The President also called for extra funding in the area of health. "As a first step, we will propose to reinforce and empower the European Medicines Agency and ECDC – our centre for disease prevention and control."

EU joins the COVID-19 Vaccine Global Access Facility (COVAX) (29/09/2020)

On 18 September, the European Commission confirmed its participation in the COVAX Facility for equitable access to affordable COVID-19 vaccines, following its expression of interest on 31 August and its announcement of a contribution of €400 million. Team Europe will contribute with an initial €230 million - equivalent to reserves or options to buy 88 million doses. The announcement follows the launch of the Facilitation Council by the WHO and the Commission to strengthen global collaboration.

COVID-19: Step up in the EU response needed (29/09/2020)

On 24 September, the European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control (ECDC) published its updated risk assessment regarding the COVID-19 pandemic, alongside a set of guidelines for non-pharmaceutical interventions such as hand hygiene, physical distancing, cleaning and ventilation. Commissioner Kyriakides said: “We are at a decisive moment, and everyone has to act decisively and use the tools we have. This means that all Member States must be ready to roll out control measures immediately and at the right time, at the very first sign of potential new outbreaks.”

70th session of the WHO Regional Committee for Europe (29/09/2020)

On 14 September, WHO Europe and the European Commission reaffirmed their partnership at this year’s session of the WHO Regional Committee for Europe, focusing on cooperation in five priority areas: health security; health systems; non-communicable diseases with a focus on cancer; sustainable food systems and health as well as health cooperation with non-EU countries. Commissioner for Health and Food Safety, Stella Kyriakides stressed that: “Only multilateralism can bring us global solutions to crises such as the one we have been facing since the beginning of 2020.”

Informal videoconference of EU Health Ministers (29/09/2020)

EU Health Ministers resumed their discussions after the summer break in an informal videoconference organised by the German Presidency. Among other topics, they discussed the variations in Member States’ approaches and testing and contact-tracing capacity for COVID-19 across the EU. Commissioner Kyriakides underlined the importance of coordinated action and invited ministers to propose a well-coordinated, predictable and transparent approach to travel restrictions, as well as considering the option to top-up funding of the Emergency Support Instrument (ESI).

Evaluation of the legislation on medicines for children and rare diseases (29/09/2020)

Last month, the Commission published its report on the functioning of the EU Regulations on orphan and paediatric medicines (2000 – 2017). The evaluation found that both Regulations fostered the development and availability of medicines for patients with rare diseases and for children. The number of medicines for patients with rare diseases and for children has increased and have become available faster and reached a higher number of patients in the Member States. The evaluation indicates that the Regulation on medicines for children increased the number of clinical trials in children.

World Heart Day statement (29/09/2020)

On 29 September, Commissioner for Health and Food Safety, Stella Kyriakides marked World Heart Day by highlighting the dangers of cardiovascular disease in the midst of the COVID-19 crisis: “In these unprecedented times of COVID-19, taking care of your heart has become more important than ever before. More lives are already lost to cardiovascular diseases in the EU and in the world than any other disease. Among the 4.5 million deaths reported in the EU in 2016, over 540,000 were due to coronary diseases, including heart attacks.”.

African Swine Fever: Commission adopts measures following outbreak in Germany (29/09/2020)

Following the confirmation this month by the German authorities that a first case of African Swine Fever had been detected in wild boar in the eastern Lander of Brandenburg, the European Commission has adopted measures with a view to contain the spread of the disease. Germany is now the 11th Member State affected by the disease since the first outbreak was reported in 2014.

Conference of Animal Health Europe (29/09/2020)

On 9 September, Stella Kyriakides, Commissioner for Health and Food safety opened this year’s Conference of Animal Health Europe. The Commissioner addressed the topic of sustainability in livestock in the context of COVID-19, using her opening remarks to note the importance of the One Health approach in recognising that animal, human and environmental health are interdependent. Other topics covered in her speech included animal health surveillance systems, prevention driven approach to animal health and the costs of AMR.

World Food Loss and Waste Day (29/09/2020)

29 September was designated the first International Day of Awareness of Food Loss and Waste by the United Nations. Ahead of this occasion, the Commissioner for Health and Food Safety, Stella Kyriakides, stated: “We urgently need to redesign our food systems. This year, COVID-19 has not only forced us to rethink our way of life and adapt to new realities. The pandemic has also proven the importance of sustainable food systems, from how we produce and process food, to the supply chains that bring it to our homes.”

13 October (29/09/2020)

16th World Congress on Public Health 2020

15 October (29/09/2020)

Farm to Fork conference

16 October (29/09/2020)

World Food Day

19 October (29/09/2020)

AGRIFISH Council

25 October (29/09/2020)

Virtual World Health Summit

Commission concludes talks to secure future coronavirus vaccine for Europeans (31/07/2020)

Today, the European Commission concluded exploratory talks with a pharmaceutical company, Sanofi, to purchase a potential vaccine against COVID-19. The envisaged contract would provide for an option to purchase 300 million doses of the vaccine, on behalf of all EU Member States. President Von der Leyen stated: “ Today’s step with Sanofi is a first important cornerstone of a much broader European Vaccines Strategy. Commissioner Kyriakides said that the “exploratory talks with Sanofi is the first important step … to provide equal access to the vaccine for our citizens”. More will follow soon.

Coronavirus: Commission strengthens preparedness for future outbreaks (30/07/2020)

On 15 July, the Commission presented immediate short-term measures to strengthen EU health preparedness for COVID-19 outbreaks. In the current context where new outbreaks spread across the EU, the Communication insists on all necessary actions needed to enhance preparedness, including testing and contact tracing, improved public health surveillance and widened access to medical countermeasures. Stella Kyriakides, Commissioner for Health and Food Safety, said: “Today we call for strong and joint action to protect our citizens and will support Member States in doing so.”

European Commission authorises first treatment against COVID-19 (30/07/2020)

On 29 July, the European Commission signed a contract with the pharmaceutical company Gilead to secure treatment doses of Veklury, the brand name for Remdesivir, which was the first medicine authorised at EU level for treatment of COVID-19. As from August, the medicine will be made available to Member States and the UK. The announcement follows the Commission’s decision earlier this month to grant conditional marketing authorisation for the medicine. Commissioner Kyriakides said that the Commission is striving to “secure access to safe and efficient treatments”

Commission strengthens support for treatment through convalescent plasma (31/07/2020)

Today, the European Commission invited more than 200 blood-collection services around the EU to apply for funding for the purchase of plasmapheresis equipment which takes plasma from donors. The aim of this action, part of the Emergency Support Instrument (ESI), is to support the treatment of new COVID-19 patients by increasing EU capacity to collect convalescent plasma recovered from COVID-19 patients. Plasma transfusion is also used to purify antibodies to make a COVID-19 specific medicinal product as short-term alternative to vaccines.

New EU framework to prepare and manage health threats discussed with Health Ministers (30/07/2020)

On 16 July Commissioner Kyriakides joined EU Health ministers at a videoconference to discuss topics such as the European Health Data Space and the supply of medicinal products in the EU. The Commissioner also stressed that the COVID-19 crisis showed the need for a stronger role for the ECDC and potentially for a new framework on cross-border threats: “We need a new framework at EU level to prepare and manage health threats. We need a stronger mandate to coordinate. This could involve new legislation or a revision of the current Decision on cross-border threats to health”

Coronavirus: mobile tracing and warning apps one step closer (30/07/2020)

The European Commission adopted an Implementing Decision this month to support the establishment of a voluntary gateway service that facilitates the interoperability of contact tracing and warning apps. This decision will mean that citizens, in particular those traveling in the EU, will only need to install one app. The design of this service builds on the Interoperability guidelines, the set of technical specifications agreed between Member States and the Commission. So far, 10 apps have been launched with 10 more expected to become operational in the near future.

Vaccine against Ebola: Commission grants new market authorisations (30/07/2020)

On 1 July, the European Commission decided to grant marketing authorisations to the company Janssen, a Johnson & Johnson company, for a vaccine against Ebola. The authorisation was granted in a month, reducing the decision-making process time in half, further demonstrating the Commission's commitment in placing the protection of public health as a priority. Commissioner Kyriakides said: “This is the second Ebola vaccine that the Commission authorises in less than a year and confirms once again that the EU remains at the forefront of the global effort to save lives from this virus.”

Farm to Fork on Agriculture and Fisheries Council agenda (30/07/2020)

On 20 July, Commissioner Kyriakides addressed the Agriculture and Fisheries Council to highlight the central objectives of the Farm to Fork Strategy, namely the production of sustainable food. The Commissioner also stressed that the strategy "sets the path towards sustainable food demand and consumption" and represents an economic opportunity for all actors in the food supply chain. The strategy also aims to make European sustainability standards the global standards.

Plant health and biosecurity webpage updated (30/07/2020)

DG SANTE has updated its webpage plant health to include the new EU Plant Health regulation as well as further information - including a new web video – on this year's inaugural International yea of Plant health. These new features can be accessed using the link below.

28 July (26/06/2020)

World Hepatitis Day

16 July (26/06/2020)

EPSCO Council

15 July (26/06/2020)

High level VC meeting on European Health Data Space

Farm to Fork: Sustainable Use of Pesticides Directive Roadmap published (26/06/2020)

The European Commission has published a combined roadmap for the evaluation of the EU legislation on the sustainable use of pesticides and an inception impact assessment for the possible revision of this legislation. This initiative is one of the ambitious actions on pesticides foreseen by the Farm to Fork strategy responding to the commitment undertaken as part of the EU's Green Deal to reduce the use and risk of chemical pesticides in order to address important public concerns.

Farm to Fork: 7th meeting of the EU Platform on Animal Welfare to discuss proposed actions (26/06/2020)

On Monday 15 June, Health and Food Safety Commissioner, Stella Kyriakides, spoke at the EU Platform on Animal Welfare for the first time. The Commissioner presented the key animal welfare actions as part of the newly adopted Farm to Fork strategy, which places sustainability at the centre of our food policy. Over the next five years, the Commission will conduct an ambitious programme, including an evaluation of the legislation, and will consider options to better inform consumers on animal welfare.

Food Waste: 8th meeting of the EU Platform (26/06/2020)

Commissioner Stella Kyriakides, in charge of Health and Food Safety, addressed the members of the EU Platform on Food Losses and Food Waste at its 8th meeting, where the recently adopted Farm to Fork strategy was presented. The work carried out on ensuring sustainability in food systems at international level was discussed as were the planned activities for the 1st International Day on Food Losses and Food Waste, on 29 September 2020. Members also shared recent food waste prevention actions taken in the context of the COVID-19 pandemic.

European Commission launches Re-open EU (26/06/2020)

This month saw the European Commission launching 'Re-open EU'. The web platform supports a safe relaunch of travelling and tourism across Europe. It will provide real-time information on borders and available means of transport and tourism services in Member States. Re-open EU will also include practical information provided by Member States on travel restrictions, public health and safety measures such as on physical distancing or wearing of facemasks, as well as other useful information on EU and national tourism offers.

World Blood Donor Day 13 June (26/06/2020)

This year's World Blood Donor Day was marked by Commissioner Kyriakides who paid tribute to those who donate blood and blood plasma: "Throughout the pandemic, we have called for blood donors to continue their essential service for our healthcare systems. It has been heart-warming to see that, despite all the difficulties, the willingness of EU citizens to donate has helped to maintain overall levels of blood supply – this is solidarity to feel great pride about." Every year in the EU, 25 million blood transfusions are used in a range of life-saving surgeries.

EU4Health programme discussed with Health Ministers (26/06/2020)

Commissioner Kyriakides was joined once again by EU Health ministers at a videoconference where the latest updates on COVID-19 were discussed. In particular, the Commissioner took the opportunity to highlight the EU4Health programme, which was announced last month: "Europe needs to give a higher priority to health - including through increased investments in health care. And that is precisely why, as we are looking to the future, we will open a new chapter in EU health policy and funding with our new EU4Health Programme."

Mobile tracing apps: Member States agree on an interoperability solution (26/06/2020)

On 12 June, Member States, with the support of the Commission, agreed on a set of technical specifications to ensure a safe exchange of information between national contact tracing apps based on a decentralised architecture. This concerns the vast majority of tracing apps that were already – or are about to be – launched in the EU. Commissioner Stella Kyriakides said: "I call on our citizens to use them, as these technologies can only be effective if we have a critical mass of users, with interoperability of the applications across EU borders.

Pharmaceutical Strategy: European Commission launches open public consultation (26/06/2020)

The European Commission launched an online public consultation on the Pharmaceutical Strategy for Europe. Coming in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic, the Strategy will aim to ensure Europe's supply of safe and affordable medicines to meet patients' needs and support the European pharmaceutical industry to remain an innovator and world leader. The consultation, launched on 16 June, will last three months. DG SANTE will organise, on 14 and 15 July, an online workshop with stakeholders on the Strategy: Registration open until 3 July.

European Vaccines Strategy unveiled (26/06/2020)

On 17 June, the European Commission presented a European strategy to accelerate the development, manufacturing and deployment of vaccines against COVID-19. The strategy proposes a joint EU approach and builds on the mandate received from EU health ministers. Commissioner for Health and Food Safety Stella Kyriakides said: "This is the EU at its best: pooling resources, joining efforts, bringing tangible results to the everyday lives of people. No one is safe until everyone is safe and we will leave no stones unturned in our efforts to protect EU and global citizens."

Health Programme unveiled (29/05/2020)

The European Commission has published a proposal for an ambitious and dedicated health programme for the next seven years - ‘EU4Health’. The programme will fill gaps revealed by the COVID-19 crisis to build more resilient health systems and strengthen our common crisis preparedness and response. Stella Kyriakides, Commissioner for Health and Food Safety, said: “EU4Health shows that the EU is ready to support Member States in building more resilient health systems. EU health systems must be prepared for future pandemics, deal effectively with non-communicable diseases”.

EU Coronavirus Global Response: €9.5 billion raised to tackle coronavirus (29/05/2020)

The European Commission has so far registered €9.5 billion in pledges from donors worldwide during the Coronavirus Global Response pledging event. This includes a pledge of €1.4 billion by the Commission. This surpasses the initial target of €7.5 billion and is a solid starting point for the worldwide pledging marathon, which began at the start of the month. The aim is to gather significant funding to ensure the collaborative development and universal deployment of diagnostics, treatments and vaccines against coronavirus.

Commission's guidance on travel and tourism in 2020 (29/05/2020)

On 13 May, the Commission presents a package of guidelines and recommendations to help Member States gradually lift travel restrictions and allow tourism businesses to reopen, after months of lockdown, while respecting necessary health precautions. The Commission's guidance aims to offer people the chance to get some well-needed rest, relaxation and fresh air. The package also aims to help the EU tourism sector recover from the pandemic, by supporting businesses and ensuring that Europe continues to be the number one destination for visitors.

Guidelines to ensure cross-border interoperability between tracing apps (29/05/2020)

Member States, with the support of the Commission, have agreed to guidelines to ensure cross-border interoperability between tracing apps so that citizens can be warned of a potential infection with coronavirus when they travel in the EU. The guidelines lay out that such tracing apps must be voluntary, transparent and temporary. They should also be cybersecure, use anonymised data, rely on Bluetooth technology and be used across borders as well as across operating systems.

European Semester: All Member States should strengthen health systems’ resilience (29/05/2020)

The European Commission has adopted proposals for country-specific recommendations that require each Member State to take steps to strengthen the resilience of its national health system. It is the first time, in the wake of the ongoing COVID-19 crisis, that the Commission has proposed health recommendations to all Member States. In the short-term, the objective of the recommendations is to mitigate the coronavirus pandemic's severe negative socio-economic consequences. The objective is to achieve sustainable and inclusive growth.

Cancer and COVID-19: current and future challenges (29/05/2020)

On 28 May, as part of the European Week against Cancer, Commissioner Kyriakides addressed stakeholders on the impact of COVID-19 on cancer prevention and care, during a webinar hosted by the Health Policy Platform. COVID-19 means that procedures (such as cancer screening or treatment) are being postponed and supply problems (including oncology medicines) are becoming a much more serious problem than in the recent past. This conclusions of this webinar will be taken up in the context of the Europe’s Beating Cancer Plan.

World No Tobacco Day - 31 May (29/05/2020)

Commissioner for Heath, Stella Kyriakides marked this year’s edition of World No Tobacco Day which focuses on young people by stating: “Protecting youth from the hazardous effects of tobacco stays a top priority and is at the core of EU tobacco control policies.” Tobacco use is one of several key risk factors that the European Commission will address in the end of the year in the ambitious Europe’s Beating Cancer Plan The Plan will propose actions at every key stage of the disease: prevention, diagnosis, treatment, life as a cancer survivor and palliative care.

Farm to Fork Strategy adopted (29/05/2020)

On 20 May, the European Commission adopted the Farm to Fork Strategy for a fair, healthy and environmentally friendly food system. In line with the European Green Deal, the strategy proposes ambitious EU actions and commitments to transform our food systems into global standards for competitive sustainability, the protection of human and planetary health, as well as all livelihoods in the food value chain. Commissioner Kyriakides said: “The Farm to Fork Strategy will ensure that, together, we will emerge with a more robust, secure, and sustainable food system.”

Annual Food Fraud 2019 report: increased Member State cooperation (29/05/2020)

The Commission has published the 2019 annual report of the EU Food Fraud Network and the System for Administrative Assistance and Food Fraud (AAC-AA and AAC-FF). The report highlights examples of EU coordinated cases as well as statistics on suspected cases food fraud through the Administrative Assistance and Cooperation System (the AAC-FF System). Among the findings, there was a steady increase in the number of requests for administrative assistance within the Food Fraud Network which confirms that, over years, cooperation in Europe between Member States has strengthened.

Animal Welfare: evaluation roadmap of the EU legislation (29/05/2020)

The European Commission has published a roadmap for the evaluation of the EU legislation on the welfare of farmed animals. This Fitness Check is one of the ambitious actions on animal welfare foreseen by the Farm to Fork strategy (hyperlink to be added) for a more sustainable agriculture. It will allow the Commission to assess the relevance of its current legislative framework composed by five EU Directives and two EU Regulations. Citizens, experts and stakeholders are invited to give their feedback, by 29 July, on the roadmap to help defining the further details of the Fitness Check.

7 June (29/05/2020)

World Food Safety Day

12 June (29/05/2020)

EPSCO Council

14 June (29/05/2020)

World Blood Donor Day

15 June (29/05/2020)

7th Animal Welfare Platform

European Commission's roadmap on ending containment measures (29/04/2020)

On 15 April, the President of the Commission and the President of the European Council presented the European roadmap listing concrete recommendations Member States should consider in order to phase-out the containment measures due to the coronavirus outbreak. Commissioner for Health and Food safety Stella Kyriakides said: "Returning to normality after the corona lockdowns will require a carefully coordinated and European approach between Member States, based on science and in the spirit of solidarity.

EU backs contact tracing apps aiming to lift confinement measures (29/04/2020)

EU Members States, supported by the Commission, announced on 16 April the development of an EU toolbox for the use of mobile applications for contact tracing and warning. This common coordinated approach, in response to the coronavirus pandemic, supports the gradual lifting of confinement measures, as set out in a Commission Recommendation last week. Contact tracing apps, if fully compliant with data protection rules, can play a key role in all phases of crisis management.

Commission issues guidelines on testing (29/04/2020)

The European Commission has presented guidelines on coronavirus testing as part of the European Roadmap towards lifting coronavirus containment measures. The guidance, released on 15 April, aims to support Member States in effectively using testing tools in line with their respective national strategies and the different stages of the pandemic, including when easing confinement measures. The Commission also aims to ensure that high-quality tools are available to assess the performance of the tests.

Commission issues guidance to mitigate clinical trial disruption in the EU (29/04/2020)

The Commission published guidance on 28 April to ensure that clinical trials can continue taking place in the EU during the COVID-19 pandemic. The aim of the guidance is to mitigate the disruption of clinical research in Europe and therefore the negative effects of the pandemic, without compromising on quality and safety. Commissioner Stella Kyriakides, in charge of Health and Food Safety, said: "Developing and deploying effective diagnostics, treatments and a vaccine will also undoubtedly be the most important breakthrough to stop the coronavirus."

European Commission calls to optimise supply and availability of medicines (29/04/2020)

On 8 April, the Commission called on Member States to ensure that Europeans have access to essential medicines during the coronavirus outbreak. The Commission guidelines focus on the rational supply, allocation and use of vital medicines to treat coronavirus patients as well as medicines at risk of shortages. Commissioner Kyriakides said: "We cannot afford to have shortages of life-saving medicines at such a critical moment. Today, we are presenting concrete actions to Member States to proactively prevent shortages and ensure that our hospitals have the essential medicines needed to save lives

Covid-19: Guidance on more regulatory flexibility for medicines (29/04/2020)

The European Commission, EMA and the European medicines regulatory network has updated a recent Q&A document to provide guidance to stakeholders on adaptations to the regulatory framework to address challenges arising from the COVID-19 pandemic. The document, published on 10 April, explains some regulatory flexibilities that can be applied to help pharmaceutical companies cope with the consequences of the pandemic, while ensuring a high level of quality, safety and efficacy for medicinal products made available to patients in the EU.

Guidance on convalescent COVID-19 plasma (29/04/2020)

The European Commission has published a guidance document on the collection and transfusion of convalescent COVID-19 plasma. Plasma transfusion is a potentially promising therapy for COVID-19 patients that can be made widely available at relatively short notice by blood services across the EU. The guidelines aim to facilitate a common approach across EU Member States to the donation, collection, testing, processing, storage, distribution and monitoring of convalescent plasma for the treatment of Covid-19 patients.

Application of the Medical Devices Regulation postponed by a year (29/04/2020)

The European Commission has welcomed the adoption by the Council and the European Parliament of the proposal to postpone by one year the date of application of the Medical Devices Regulation. The announcement allows Member States, health institutions and economic operators to prioritise the fight against the coronavirus pandemic. This decision takes into account the unprecedented challenges of the coronavirus pandemic and the need for an increased availability of vitally important medical devices across the EU whilst continuing to ensure patient health and safety until the new legislation beco

Commission acts on cross-border treatment and medical staff deployment (29/04/2020)

The European Commission has issued practical guidance to Member States on cross-border treatment for patients and the deployment of medical staff. The guidance aims to foster cooperation across borders to help ease the pressure on overburdened hospitals such as transferring COVID-19 patients for treatment in Member States where hospital places are available. The Commission will also support Member States or non-governmental organisations to send qualified teams of medical personnel to offer assistance across borders.

World Health Day (29/04/2020)

Commissioner for Health and Food Safety Stella Kyriakides marked World Health Day 2020 on 7 April by paying tribute to healthcare workers while issuing support in the form of EU guidelines: "Today, as every day, our thoughts are also with the brave healthcare workers in the EU and around the world. Now, more than ever, we have cause to honour and salute them. To help ease some of this pressure, we have issued practical guidance to Member States to encourage and facilitate cross-border treatment of patients and the deployment of medical staff."

New Food Q&A uploaded on COVID-19 (29/04/2020)

On 8 April, DG SANTE updated its website to include a Questions and Answers page on COVID-19 and food safety. The page covers various topics such as the risk of infection through food, food production, food at home, and food in shops as well as Member States recommendation. The new Q&A page can be accessed through the link below.

4 May (29/04/2020)

Vaccines Pledging Conference

11 May (29/04/2020)

Health Council

17 May (29/04/2020)

World Health Assembly (dedicated to COVID-19)

25-31 May (29/04/2020)

European Week Against Cancer

31 May (29/04/2020)

World No Tobacco Day

EU launches pledging effort as part of Global Response (29/04/2020)

The European Union is joining forces with global partners to start a pledging effort to raise funds in support of a joint call for action to develop diagnostics, therapeutics and vaccines against coronavirus as part of the Coronavirus Global Response – starting on 4 May 2020. President von der Leyen said “Beating coronavirus requires a global response and sustained actions on many fronts. We need to develop a vaccine, to produce it and deploy it to every corner of the world. And we need to make it available at affordable prices.”

11-15 May (29/04/2020)

European Public Health Week

Protective and medical material production stepped up (27/03/2020)

On 24 March, the joint procurement of personal protective equipment launched by the European Commission to address the coronavirus crisis proved successful. Signed under the cross-border health threat decision, the public procurement helps Member States acquire life-saving medical and personal protective equipment such as masks, gloves, gowns and ventilators, as well as laboratory equipment in the fight against COVID-19. The equipment should be available in the coming weeks after Member States sign contracts with the bidders.

Scientific panel to advise the Commission (27/03/2020)

On 17 March, the European Commission launched an advisory panel on COVID-19 made up of epidemiologists and virologists to draw up EU guidelines on science-based and coordinated risk management measures to be addressed to all Member States. These include identifying any gaps in measures taken in clinical management and recommendation of policy measures for mitigating consequences of COVID-19, among others. The Commissioner for Health and Food Safety said: “Time and science matter if we want to win this fight. This panel will play an important role in the EU's medical response to the pandemic.”

Commission’s recommendations on Community measures and testing (27/03/2020)

On 19 March, the European Commission published recommendations for Community measures and for testing strategies to combat COVID-19. These guidelines follow the feedback from the European Commission’s COVID-19 advisory panel and are based on the scientific advice from the ECDC. The recommendations will be discussed with the Member States.

Guidance to sponsors on how to manage clinical trials during the COVID-19 pandemic (27/03/2020)

On 20 March, the European Commission, the European Medicines Agency (EMA) and national Head of Medicines Agencies (HMA) published new recommendations for sponsors on how to manage the conduct of clinical trials in the context of the coronavirus disease (COVID-19) pandemic.

Medical research & funding (27/03/2020)

Since the beginning of the crisis in January, the European Commission has invested in several high priority research calls to further research into rapid diagnostic testing, treatment options, vaccines, and general pandemic and epidemic preparedness. In cooperation with the pharmaceutical industry, around €140m will be available to support research into COVID-19. A number of EU-funded projects that are already operating are also contributing to the response to the virus outbreak.

Harmonised standards for medical devices to respond to crisis (27/03/2020)

On 24 March, the Commission adopted decisions on harmonised standards which will allow manufacturers to place high performing PPE devices on the market. The standards will facilitate a faster and cheaper conformity assessment procedure. Stella Kyriakides, Commissioner for Health said: “With the measures we adopt today, we speed up the entry of safe, essential medical equipment and devices such as masks, gowns and suits in the EU market. This equipment is fundamental for our health professionals – the brave and resilient women and men at the front line - to keep saving lives.”

Coordination of HSC at EU level (27/03/2020)

The Health Security Committee (HSC) is coordinating a rapid response to serious cross-border threats to health at EU level. The HSC, which is chaired by the Commission, is composed of representatives from national public health authorities, the ECDC and the WHO. In the context of COVID-19, the European Commission has been calling the HSC regularly via videoconference to discuss the outbreak and related preparedness and response measures.

Finally, remember... (27/03/2020)

...5 easy steps we can all make to tackle COVID-19

Farm to Fork strategy (27/03/2020)

The Farm to Fork Strategy that was due to be adopted last week has now been postponed until the second quarter of 2020. In the meantime, the consultation on the Farm to Fork strategy roadmap closed last week after a short extension.

Animal Welfare: Launch of public consultation on the EU Strategy (27/03/2020)

On 23 March, the European Commission published a 12 week open consultation on the EU Strategy for Protection and Welfare of Animals 2012-2015. This public consultation, available in all EU languages, is part of a one-year external study supporting the evaluation of the EU Strategy. The evaluation aims to assess if the EU Strategy delivered its initial objectives. The results of the evaluation will inform future EU initiatives on animal welfare as well as actions under the EU’s Farm to Fork Strategy. Citizens, experts and stakeholders are invited to give their feedback before 15 June 2020.

7 April (27/03/2020)

World Health Day

19 April (27/03/2020)

G20 Health Ministers meeting (via videoconference)

20 -26 April (27/03/2020)

European Immunization Week

COVID-19 : EU working on all fronts (26/02/2020)

From day one, the European Commission’s central aim has been the protection of citizens from COVID-19, supporting Member States and the global efforts to contain its spread. Commissioner Stella Kyriakides has highlighted these ongoing efforts: “COVID-19 has shown its ability to cross borders and continents. This outbreak is a test case for existing global emergency response mechanisms as well as for our cooperation within the EU”. For the latest details on the EU’s response to COVID-19, including Q&As, speeches and Risk Assessments by ECDC, please follow the link below.

World Cancer Day event (26/02/2020)

On 4 February, World Cancer Day, the European Commission started its outreach on Europe’s Cancer Plan at an event in the European Parliament in Brussels, bringing together several testimonials and a range of stakeholders, from political leaders to health professionals and NGOs to help devise and implement an ambitious and far-reaching plan that will have a concrete impact in fighting this disease. President Von der Leyen, Vice-President Schinas and several Members of the European Parliament joined Commissioner for Health and Food Safety, Stella Kyriakides to launch the consultation.

Europe’s Beating Cancer Plan: join the consultation (26/02/2020)

The consultation on Europe's Beating Cancer Plan is now open and will last for 12 weeks until the end of April. Citizens, patients, and carers replying in their personal capacity as well as health professionals and organisations are invited to contribute their thoughts until 7 May. Stakeholders can also provide feedback to the Europe's Beating Cancer Plan roadmap.

World Rare Disease Day (26/02/2020)

On 28 February, the European Commission marked World Rare Disease Day by highlighting the call for closer collaboration to improve research, diagnosis and treatment of such diseases. Commissioner Stella Kyriakides said: “Tackling rare diseases and reducing the inequalities in treatment across the EU is a key personal priority for me. Earlier this month, I launched an EU wide public consultation on Europe’s Beating Cancer Plan, which will have a concrete impact for the 22% of cancer patients that are diagnosed with a rare form of cancer, as well as for other rare conditions.”

Consultation on Farm to Fork Strategy (26/02/2020)

On 17 February, the Commission published a Roadmap on the Farm to Fork Strategy defining the scope, challenges and objectives of the strategy for making our food systems more sustainable as part of Europe's Green Deal. This roadmap will allow all sectors affected to give feedback during a 4 week period in order to further develop and fine tune the initiative.

Commissioner meets with ENVI Committee (26/02/2020)

On 18 February, members of the ENVI Committee met at the European Parliament to exchange views on a number of issues. Commissioner for Health and Food Safety, Stella Kyriakides, highlighted key priorities, such as the European Beating Cancer Plan, the European Health Data as well as the Farm to Fork strategy, which forms part of the European Green Deal.

Commission prohibits granting unjustified emergency authorisations (26/02/2020)

On 3 February, the European Commission adopted two decisions which prohibit Romania and Lithuania from granting unjustified emergency authorisations for three neonicotinoids (imidacloprid, clothianidin and thiamethoxam). Health and Food Safety Commissioner Stella Kyriakides said: “This is the first time that the Commission has adopted such decisions. The granting of emergency authorisations for pesticides is only possible if strict conditions are met.” Since it has been proven that the use of these substances is harmful to bees, their use had already been limited at EU level.

Commission publishes its progress report on Action Plan (26/02/2020)

On 12 February, the European Commission published its 4th progress report on the implementation of the European One Health Action Plan against Antimicrobial Resistance, which was adopted in June 2017. Since the last progress report in mid-2019, there have been number of developments. These include meetings of the AMR One Health Network and of the Health Security Committee as well as One Health visits to Member States to support the implementation of national One Health action plans.

4 March (26/02/2020)

World Obesity Day

5 March (26/02/2020)

International Year of Plant Health event

10 March (26/02/2020)

AMR: meeting of One-Health network

16 March (26/02/2020)

High-level conference on Organ donation & transplantation

23 March (26/02/2020)

AGRIFISH

24 March (26/02/2020)

World Tuberculosis Day

30 March (26/02/2020)

International Plant Protection Convention

Getting ready for World Cancer Day (28/01/2020)

Next month will see the European Commission presenting the first stages of the Europe’s beating Cancer Plan. The event, hosted in the European Parliament on 4 February, will open a consultation with all stakeholders, as well as patients and their families on the best way forward in combatting the disease.

Europe prepared for Coronavirus 2019-NCOV (28/01/2020)

On 29 January, Commissioner Stella Kyriakides gave a press conference about the EU's preparedness and response to the developing situation of the coronavirus alongside Commissioner Lenarčič, in charge of Crisis Management. Ms Kyriakides highlighted: “We have been working across the full spectrum of Commission services and agencies, as well as the Council and European External Action Service. This is to ensure the utmost coordinated response and full activation of all support services in order to be prepared to mitigate the consequences of a larger spread of the virus in the EU.”

The Steering Group on Health Promotion, Disease Prevention and Management of Non-Communicable Diseases meeting (28/01/2020)

On 23 January, the Steering Group on Health Promotion, Disease Prevention and Management of Non-Communicable Diseases (SGPP) held its formal meeting in Brussels. Representatives from Member States, the European Investment Bank and several European Commission services discussed cancer, vaccinations and mental health, followed by the joint meeting of the SGPP with the Horizon2020 Programme Committee devoted to cancer action in the EU.

Commissioner Kyriakides opens 85th International Green Week (28/01/2020)

On 17 January, Commissioner Stella Kyriakides, in charge of Health and Food Safety, attended the 85th International Green Week. The Commissioner used her opening speech to highlight pressing topics such as food waste, food safety as well as the EU’s food chain, before addressing those present on the upcoming ‘Farm to Fork’ strategy, which will be unveiled in full this spring as part of the European Green Deal.

The Commission urges action on African Swine Fever (28/01/2020)

At this year’s International Green week in Berlin, Commissioner Stella Kyriakides highlighted the need to effectively deal with African Swine Fever in the EU: The European Commission has spent €110 million since 2014 in the fight against this fever, but more needs to be done – including at global level”. The Commissioner also urged close and effective collaboration and communication, the enforcement of standards set by the World Animal Health Organisation as well as information sharing in the shape of transparent and timely data exchanges.

European Green Deal Communication presented to Agriculture Ministers (28/01/2020)

On 27 January, The Commission presented the European Green Deal communication at this month’s Agrifish Council, with special attention being devoted to the agricultural aspects of the Deal. Ministers also discussed a proposal on CAP transitional rules, which were adopted on 31 October 2019.

Neonicotinoid: non-renewal of thiacloprid (28/01/2020)

On 13 January, the Commission decided not to renew the approval of thiacloprid, a neonicotinoid used as an insecticide for many food and feed crops as it presents health and environmental concerns. Commissioner Stella Kyriakides, in charge of health and Food Safety, welcomed the decision as "another clear demonstration of the Commission's commitment to protect the health of EU citizens and the environment."

Chlorpyrifos et chlorpyrifos-methyl to be banned (28/01/2020)

On 10 January, the Commission adopted a decision to withdraw the approval of pesticides chlorpyrifos and chlorpyrifos-methyl from the European market. This followed the confirmation by the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA), of the pesticides’ harmful effects on human health. Health and Food Safety Commissioner, Stella Kyriakides stressed that: "Protecting citizens from dangerous chemicals is a priority of my mandate and of the Green Pact for Europe".

4 February (28/01/2020)

World Cancer Day

22 February (28/01/2020)

Salon de l’Agriculture (until 1 March)

Europe’s Beating Cancer Plan (19/12/2019)

On 10 December, Commissioner for Health and Food Safety, Stella Kyriakides spoke at the “Europe’s Beating Cancer Plan: Better access to cancer care in Europe” conference stating that the Plan “that I will present next year aims to harness our collective power. By joining forces and working in partnerships, we can bring about change.” On 4 February 2020 – World Cancer Day – the Commissioner will launch a public discussion on the plan, inviting everyone involved in the most inclusive way possible to share their views on the way forward.”

Cancer: EPSCO Health Council (19/12/2019)

Commissioner for Health and Food Safety, Stella Kyriakides spoke at the Employment, Social Policy, Health and Consumer Affairs Council (EPSCO) Council, highlighting the Europe’s Beating Cancer Action Plan: “This will be the opportunity to show what Europe can tangibly do for its citizens. The plan will be based on four pillars: prevention; early diagnosis; treatment; and life as a cancer survivor and palliative care.”

Pharmaceuticals: EPSCO Health Council (19/12/2019)

Commissioner for Health and Food Safety, Stella Kyriakides spoke of her European pharmaceutical policy at the Employment, Social Policy, Health and Consumer Affairs Council (EPSCO) Council. Ms Kyriakides laid out her priorities, including pricing and shortages: “I will look at ways to help ensure Europe has the supply of affordable medicines to meet its needs. In doing so, I will support the European pharmaceutical industry to ensure that it remains an innovator and world leader”

5th Meeting of the Mission Board for Cancer (19/12/2019)

On 12 December, Commissioner for Health and Food Safety, Stella Kyriakides attended the 5th Meeting of the Mission Board for Cancer met in Brussels where updates on the cancer mission and the Cancer Action Plan were discussed, as well as national cancer plans with representatives of Member States and the Innovative partnership for Action Against Cancer (IPAAC) Joint Action.

Stella Kyriakides : Citizens’ Dialogue in Cyprus (19/12/2019)

On 19 December, Commissioner for Health and Food Safety, Stella Kyriakides returned to her native Cyprus to participate in a Citizens’ Dialogue: ‘Europe close to its citizens: Health and Food Safety’ before meeting with the Cypriot Minister of Health, Mr Constantinos Ioannou the following day where topics such as Cancer, pharmaceutical and vaccines were discussed.

Green Deal: Farm to Fork strategy (19/12/2019)

On 11 December, the Commission unveiled the European Green Deal. At its core is the ‘the Farm to Fork’ strategy, presented in spring 2020, which will ensure affordable and sustainable food for Europeans. Ahead of the announcement, Commissioner for Health and Food Safety, Stella Kyriakides gave the keynote speech at the EU Agricultural Outlook conference, speaking of her desire of the upcoming strategy to “agree ambitious targets on pesticides and fertilisers” and the “need to stimulate the development and use of alternative plant protection products.”

“Times Up for Food Waste” Conference (19/12/2019)

On 12 December, Commissioner for Health and Food Safety, Stella Kyriakides addressed the 7th meeting of the EU Platform on Food Losses and Food Waste at a public conference, where the Platform’s recommendations for action were launched. At the meeting, Commissioner Kyriakides said: “Preventing food loss and waste is intrinsically linked to one of the core issues of my mandate: we cannot deliver a ‘Farm to Fork’ strategy for sustainable food along the whole value chain without tackling food loss and waste.”

“Smarter rules for safer food and plant health” conference (19/12/2019)

On 13 December 2019, Commissioner for Health and Food Safety, Stella Kyriakides addressed the “Smarter rules for safer food and plant health” conference which marked the entry into application of the new EU legislation on official controls legislation along the agri-food chain (OCR) and on the protection of plants. The conference also celebrated the 40th anniversary of the Rapid Alert System for Food and Feed (RASFF).

Pesticides: Commissioner welcomes vote to ban chlorpyrifos (19/12/2019)

On 6 December 2019, at the meeting of the Standing Committee on Plants, Animals, Food and Feed (PAFF Committee), Member States voted on two draft Implementing Regulations proposing to not renew the approvals of the pesticides chlorpyrifos and chlorpyrifos-methyl. “Protecting the health of EU citizens is my top priority” said Commissioner for Health and Food Safety Kyriakides, reacting to the news.

Animal Welfare: extension of the mandate of the Platform (19/12/2019)

On 3 December, the European Commission adopted a Decision extending the mandate of the EU Platform on Animal Welfare until 30 June 2021. This additional time will ensure the continuity of the dialogue and the activities of the members on specific animal welfare files. Launched in 2017, the Platform is now widely recognised as an important tool for exchanging best practices and undertaking non-legislative initiatives.

17 January 2020 (19/12/2019)

85th International Green Week

27 January 2020 (19/12/2019)

AGRIFISH Council