In line with the call by the Heads of State and Government, the European Commission announced on 17 March that it had set up a Scientific Council dedicated to COVID-19 (see EUROPE 12443/1). This team of virologists and epidemiologists, which will advise the Commission on scientific and coordinated risk management measures, will hold its first meeting on 18 March.
“This panel will play an important role in the EU’s medical response to the pandemic. Its work will complement and capitalise on the work of the European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control (ECDC)”, commented European Health Commissioner Stella Kyriakides.
The Advisory Group is composed of 7 members from 6 Member States (France, Germany, Denmark, Italy, the Netherlands, Belgium) who will act in their personal capacity and independently. It is chaired by the President of the Commission, Ursula von der Leyen, and co-chaired by the Commissioner for Health. The European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control (ECDC), the European Medicines Agency (EMA) and the Emergency Response Coordination Centre (ERCC) participate as observers.
The scientists will be responsible for providing advice to the Commission on the following issues: – response measures specific to each Member State; – identification of inconsistencies or gaps in the measures already taken; – prioritisation of needs (health care, civil protection, resources); – subsequently, recommendation of policy measures to address and mitigate the long-term consequences of COVID-19.
The members will deliberate at least twice a week by videoconference on the basis of questions put by the Commission or questions raised on their own initiative. (Original version in French by Sophie Petitjean)