Today’s news / Denmark’s new epidemic strategy: Broad and adaptable
According to Kirstine Moll Harboe, who is the unit manager at the Danish Health Authority, the Danish Health Authority has used knowledge from managing the Covid-19 pandemic to shape their new strategy. Among other things, they have learned that it is essential for the authorities to be transparent towards the citizens. (Archive photo). Photo: Mathias Svold/Ritzau Scanpix

Denmark’s new epidemic strategy: Broad and adaptable

The Danish Health Authority has developed a new national strategy for managing future epidemics, focusing on close cooperation and clear distribution of responsibilities. Unlike the previous strategy from 2013, which was tailored specifically to influenza, the new approach is not directed at any specific disease and is designed to be more generic and flexible. It emphasizes rapid involvement of relevant parties, overview, and coordinated responses. Lessons from the COVID-19 pandemic have influenced the strategy, highlighting the effectiveness of involving authorities, experts, healthcare personnel, patient organizations, and civil society. Transparency with citizens and decision-making based on clear grounds are also essential aspects of the strategy, which aims at a proportionate response to infection risks.