PDPC hosted a pre-conference workshop at the European Public Health Conference in Lisbon on November 12. This half-day workshop brought together participants from Australia, Austria, Belgium, Canada, Germany, Ireland, and the Netherlands to tackle a simulated Avian Influenza outbreak in the fictional European country of Eldoria.

The scenario involved an outbreak originating in pig farms, escalating to human transmission, and reaching population-level spread, with significant impacts particularly among younger age groups. Participants assumed the role of an international expert panel convened to provide scientific advice to the government of Eldoria.

Working in two groups, one focusing on biomedical perspectives and the other on societal and economic considerations, the participants first developed disciplinary advice. Subsequently, interdisciplinary teams synthesized integrated recommendations, addressing not only the necessary measures but also their feasibility for citizens’ lives and strategies to mitigate unintended consequences.

While PDPC has conducted similar workshops within the Netherlands, the diverse perspectives of international experts spanning three continents enriched the interdisciplinary discussions in unique ways. A key insight, consistent with previous Dutch sessions, emerged from this international group: participants emphasized the critical importance of practicing interdisciplinary collaboration in simulation settings before real crises arise. Such exercises are essential for fostering a shared understanding of challenges, appreciating diverse disciplinary perspectives, and establishing a strong foundation for effective collaboration during pandemics.