Report first meeting of the European Region laboratory task force for high threat pathogens: Vienna, Austria, 26–27 February 2020

ABSTRACT

International networks for laboratory surveillance, preparedness and response are an important tool for laboratory strengthening, because they can serve both as a platform for sharing information and expertise, and as a system for the referral of diagnostic specimens for primary and confirmatory testing. Among the European Region priority countries of the WHO Health Emergencies Programme a number do not participate in international laboratory preparedness and response networks for High Threat Pathogens (HTPs), which represents a key gap. To address this gap, the WHO Regional Office for Europe is establishing the European Regional Laboratory Task Force for High Threat Pathogens (Lab Task Force). This was the first official meeting of the Lab Task Force’s members and partners and the opportunity to provide information on COVID-19 virus globally and in the Region, including laboratory readiness, was taken.