Memo: Health: Major step forward in tackling serious cross-border health threats – statement by Tonio Borg, Commissioner in charge of Health

On 3 July 2013, the European Parliament voted in favour of the Decision on Serious Cross-border Threats to Health.

The Decision will ensure that EU countries regularly exchange information on their preparedness activities. Member States produce national 'preparedness plans' which include the basic capacity they have in place to be ready for a public health emergency. These plans cover, for example, readiness by hospitals for increased admissions, arrangements for stockpiling medical products and draft measures in case of an outbreak, such as school closures or banning mass gatherings.

• Primary Source

European Commission: Rapid: MEMO/13/645: FAQ: Serious Cross-border Threats to Health Decision http://europa.eu/rapid/press-release_MEMO-13-645_en.htm

ESO: Background Information: Lawmakers vote to strengthen response to cross-border health threats http://www.europeansources.info/record/lawmakers-vote-to-strengthen-response-to-cross-border-health-threats/

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