Date: 2026-02-04 Source: ECDC News Category: Guidance (Preparedness Training)
On 26 January 2025, ECDC supported Malta in conducting a simulation exercise (SIMEX) focused on strengthening national preparedness and response capabilities for vector-borne disease outbreaks. The exercise simulated a chikungunya disease outbreak and brought together multi-sectoral professionals to test coordination mechanisms using a One Health approach.
Event: Simulation Exercise (SIMEX) Date of Exercise: 26 January 2025 Location: Malta Simulated Disease: Chikungunya (vector-borne disease) Coordination: EU Health Task Force (EUHTF)
The exercise engaged professionals from multiple sectors:
International Observers: Representatives from Cyprus and Liechtenstein attended to learn best practices for their own countries.
The SIMEX aimed to:
The exercise emphasized a One Health approach, integrating:
This multi-sectoral integration is critical for vector-borne disease preparedness, as these diseases involve environmental vectors (mosquitoes), animal reservoirs, and human health impacts.
Chikungunya is a vector-borne viral disease transmitted primarily by Aedes mosquitoes (same vectors as dengue and Zika). Climate change is expanding the geographical range of these vectors into European regions, making preparedness exercises increasingly important.
The EUHTF provides rapid support to EU/EEA countries during public health threats, facilitating coordinated responses across member states.
This type of simulation exercise:
Preparedness Level: National capacity strengthening Geographic Scope: Malta (with regional learning for Cyprus and Liechtenstein) Threat Type: Vector-borne diseases (specifically arboviral infections) Response Mechanism: Multi-sectoral coordination using One Health approach
Vector-borne diseases are expanding their range in Europe due to:
Regular simulation exercises help EU/EEA countries maintain readiness for emerging vector-borne disease threats.
Source: ECDC News - Malta SIMEX