This is just one of many examples of JRC analysis, as it contributes to the European Commission’s response to the COVID-19 crisis with solid scientific evidence, tools and data. From the preparation of guidelines and control materials for testing and better characterisation of the pandemic, to the analysis of economic impacts, the JRC is evaluating and anticipating the evolution of the crisis to manage it better and prepare for the exit strategy. The JRC is monitoring the situation from the citizens’ perspective, understanding their fears and concerns on security, social, economic and environmental aspects. 

JRC initiatives are helping manage the complex situation. JRC scientists designed a new control material to help prevent coronavirus test failures and increase their accuracy. The lack of positive control materials was one of the main challenges faced by laboratories for the reliable implementation of coronavirus diagnostic tests. From 1 April, samples of JRC material were dispatched to laboratories and research centres in countries across Europe.

On 15 April, the European Commission presented a roadmap towards lifting coronavirus containment measures. The availability of reliable data over time is key to lifting containment measures, as Mariya Gabriel, European Commissioner responsible for the JRC, said. With JRC support, the Commission developed test performance criteria to improve their overall performance, which will benefit all European citizens.

Many other actions were taken to help tackle the pandemic with the JRC’s crisis management tools, including through the Disaster Risk Management Knowledge Centre. The JRC’s work has been contributing to:

• define exit scenarios;
• model the epidemic dynamics, for instance on demographics or mobility;
• evaluate impacts on both business activities and the labour market in the most affected sectors, as well as on security aspects related to critical infrastructure or energy;
• investigate social aspects and identify possible support through existing European tools such as the Structural Funds;
• understand the impact of the Coronavirus crisis on the environment.