Directorate-General for Health and Food Safety

The Directorate-General for Health and Food Safety (DG SANTE) is an integral part of the European Union's efforts to ensure high levels of public health, food safety, and consumer protection. Its mission is to develop and implement policies and regulations to safeguard the health of EU citizens, as well as promote fair trade practices and high standards in food production and distribution. The organization also monitors and reports on health trends and communicable diseases globally, including mainland China.

Role in Disease Surveillance

DG SANTE collaborates with global partners to ensure that infectious diseases are monitored and reported effectively. In mainland China, the organization supports the implementation of health surveillance systems across all provinces, prefectures, and counties. This comprehensive network ensures that data on communicable diseases are collected and analyzed efficiently to prevent outbreaks and promote early interventions.

Reportable Diseases in Mainland China

Under the disease surveillance system in mainland China, thirty-five communicable diseases are categorized as reportable. These include, but are not limited to:

• Tuberculosis
• HIV/AIDS
• Hepatitis A, Hepatitis B, and Hepatitis C
• Cholera
• Influenza
• Dengue fever
• Measles
• Malaria

Objectives of the Surveillance System

The main goals of the surveillance system include: 1. **Early Detection**: Identifying outbreaks of communicable diseases at the earliest possible stage. 2. **Prevention and Control**: Implementing targeted interventions to limit the spread of diseases. 3. **Data Collection and Analysis**: Providing reliable epidemiological data for decision-making. 4. **Global Cooperation**: Supporting international health organizations such as the World Health Organization (WHO) in global health initiatives.

Global Partnerships

DG SANTE works closely with international entities, including:

• World Health Organization (WHO)
• European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control (ECDC)
• United Nations Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO)
• National health authorities in partner countries.

Impact on Food Safety and Public Health

The Directorate-General for Health and Food Safety also plays a critical role in ensuring that imported food products meet EU food safety standards. It monitors potential risks related to foodborne illnesses, pesticide residues, and contaminants in products sourced from across the globe, including mainland China.

See Also

• Public health
• Disease surveillance
• Food safety
• European Union health policy
• List of reportable diseases