European Programme for Intervention Epidemiology Training

European Programme for Intervention Epidemiology Training

The European Programme for Intervention Epidemiology Training (EPIET) is a specialized training program designed to enhance the field epidemiology capacity within the European Union. It aims to provide training in intervention epidemiology to public health professionals, enabling them to respond effectively to public health threats.

History

The EPIET program was established in 1995 by the European Commission in response to the need for a coordinated approach to infectious disease surveillance and control across Europe. The program was developed to strengthen the capacity of EU Member States to respond to public health threats through the training of field epidemiologists.

Objectives

The primary objectives of the EPIET program are:

• To train public health professionals in field epidemiology and intervention epidemiology.
• To enhance the capacity of EU Member States to respond to public health threats.
• To promote the exchange of knowledge and best practices in epidemiology across Europe.

Structure

The EPIET program is structured as a two-year fellowship, during which fellows are placed in public health institutes across Europe. The program includes both practical fieldwork and theoretical training components.

Field Placements

Fellows are placed in a host institute, where they work on real-world public health projects. These placements provide hands-on experience in outbreak investigation, surveillance, and public health response.

Training Modules

In addition to field placements, fellows participate in a series of training modules. These modules cover a range of topics, including:

• Epidemiological methods
• Outbreak investigation
• Surveillance systems
• Risk communication

Impact

The EPIET program has significantly contributed to the development of a network of skilled field epidemiologists across Europe. Graduates of the program have played key roles in responding to major public health events, such as the H1N1 influenza pandemic and the COVID-19 pandemic.

Collaboration

EPIET collaborates with various public health organizations, including the European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control (ECDC), which currently coordinates the program. The program also works closely with national public health institutes and universities across Europe.

Future Developments

The EPIET program continues to evolve to meet the changing needs of public health in Europe. Future developments may include expanded training opportunities and increased collaboration with global public health initiatives.