Public health needs of migrants, refugees and asylum seekers in Europe, 2015: Infectious disease aspects

Abstract

Migrants do not pose a significant health threat to the citizens of the EU. There is no evidence or expert opinion that suggests that migrants increase the risk of infectious disease epidemics in the host population in Europe. However, many newly arrived migrants in Europe are vulnerable to infection, and thus prevention and assessment of infectious diseases among newly arrived migrants is essential to identify and address their health needs. Ensuring adequate shelter, sanitation and water supplies, providing access to vaccinations and medical care, and paying particular attention to the most vulnerable, such as children and the elderly are important priorities to ensure that migrants' health needs are addressed.