The first six EU reference laboratories for public health are now operational

The first six EU reference labs (EURLs) for public health have been in operation from January 1, 2025, and they will continue to operate for the following seven years. The EURLs help to improve EU readiness and ensure prompt identification and response in the event of outbreaks by bringing together consortia of scientific experts from within the EU. Thus, they will fortify the EU’s defenses against grave risks to cross-border health.

The following areas are covered by the six EURLs:

• Bacteria with antimicrobial resistance (AMR)
• Viral pathogens spread via vectors
• Emerging zoonotic and rodent-borne viral infections
• Emerging, zoonotic, and high-risk bacterial pathogens
• Legionella
• Pertussis and diphtheria

By guaranteeing data comparability and enhancing laboratory technique capability inside the EU, the EURLs will assist national public health laboratories.