Subhi Alshaer: Tracking diseases with ECDC’s Epidemic Intelligence Team
Subhi Alshaer, a Mediterranean and Black Sea Programme for Intervention Epidemiology (MediPIET) fellow from Palestine*, had the opportunity to work with ECDC’s Epidemic Intelligence team as part of an international exchange. During the period 3–13 September 2024, Subhi was involved in central public health activities at ECDC, gaining insight into how the team monitors global health events and prepares for large-scale international gatherings.
Subhi’s personal reflections
‘During my visit to ECDC as part of the MediPIET international exchange, I was privileged to be able to work closely with the Epidemic Intelligence team. The focus was on understanding how health events are monitored, particularly in preparation for major global events, such as the Paris 2024 Paralympic Games 2024.’
‘I was involved in the monitoring of several sources of information to identify potential health threats. The process is highly systematic: once signals of concern are detected, they are evaluated against specific criteria to assess their risk to public health. The aim is to identify and address these risks as early as possible.’
Teamwork and efficiency
‘What struck me most was the team’s remarkable efficiency and precision. I was surprised to learn just how many diverse sources — ranging from news articles to less traditional outlets such as blog posts and Twitter accounts — are monitored around the clock. The team operates on a global scale, with constant coordination and collaboration to ensure public health security.’
‘One aspect I hadn’t anticipated was the sheer volume of teamwork and communication involved. Every day, we engaged in discussions to verify information, cross-check sources, and collectively make decisions about emerging risks. The speed at which this happens, combined with the strong sense of team support, made this experience both challenging and rewarding.’
New skills
‘I’m confident that this exchange has significantly contributed to my professional growth. In addition to gaining practical skills in epidemic intelligence, I have learned how to process vast amounts of data and make informed decisions that could influence public health. I look forward to applying these skills to my work in Palestine and introducing some of the best practices that I have learned about at ECDC in my home institution.’
MediPIET is funded by the European Commission, DG NEAR, through the EU Initiative on Health Security, a programme designed to strengthen public health preparedness and response in EU neighbouring countries. This initiative focuses on building a skilled workforce through the MediPIET programme, which supports field epidemiology training.
*This designation shall not be construed as recognition of a State of Palestine and is without prejudice to the individual positions of the Member States on this issue.
