ECDC coordinates the network of EU reference laboratories for public health, established under Regulation (EU) 2022/2371 on serious cross-border threats to health.[1][2][5] The first six such laboratories became operational on January 1, 2025.[1][2][4] Three additional laboratories for foodborne and waterborne bacteria, foodborne, waterborne and vector-borne protozoan helminths, and foodborne and waterborne viruses became operational on January 1, 2026.[1][7] The tenth laboratory for respiratory viruses will start operating in January 2027 and will be funded by the EU4Health programme.[1][2] These laboratories support national public health laboratories in the EU by performing specialized tests, benchmarking diagnostic methods, external quality controls, training and sharing expertise.[1][3] Their main role is to ensure the reliability, comparability and consistency of laboratory data across EU countries, thereby improving the early detection of outbreaks and preparedness for cross-border threats.[1][3][5] Each laboratory is designated for seven years.[1][2][3][7]