Fostering collaboration in public health microbiology in the European Union

This report is a summary of work performed together with nominated Member State representatives—in the field of public health microbiology—to obtain a common understanding of the systems and structures operating in EU countries. A survey, combined with expert consultations, was used to collect relevant information about definitions used in this field and extract an overview of key issues such as the application of norms, quality assurance, biosafety, education and training. A significant part of the study was focused on national reference laboratory activities, systems of selection and evaluation, and overall capacities.