ECDC is an EU agency aimed at strengthening Europe's defences against infectious diseases. The core functions cover a wide spectrum of activities: surveillance, epidemic intelligence, response, scientific advice, microbiology, preparedness, public health training, international relations, health communication, and the scientific journal Eurosurveillance.

ECDC disease programmes cover antimicrobial resistance and healthcare-associated infections; emerging and vector-borne diseases; food- and waterborne diseases and zoonoses; HIV, sexually transmitted infections and viral hepatitis; influenza and other respiratory viruses; tuberculosis; and vaccine-preventable diseases.

In 2019, ECDC continues to contribute to health security, giving particular attention to the following areas:

• Tackle antimicrobial resistance
• Improve vaccine coverage in the EU
• Support the European Commission and the Member States in addressing the Sustainable Development Goals in the area of HIV, TB and hepatitis
• Further support the European Commission and the Member States in strengthening the preparedness for cross-border health threats
• Focus on strategic partnerships to create synergy and avoid duplication of work
• Further enhance ECDC’s operational performance and monitoring. 

ECDC values diversity and accepts applications without distinction on the grounds of age, race, political, philosophical or religious conviction, sex or sexual orientation and regardless of disabilities, marital status or family situation.