[Norwegian infection control in the new Europe]

Infectious diseases are still a major health problem world wide. In Europe, however, and in Norway in particular, infectious diseases have not been a threat to public health for several years. In this paper, some of the major events in the European region which could have an impact on public health are discussed. These events include the extensive migration of people in the European region, military conflicts in former Yugoslavia, serious economic and social problems in the former Soviet-Union, and the expansion of the European Union (EU). Increased passage across borders of people and food may, in the worst case, represent a threat to public health. The paper also deals with the status of the different elements of the Norwegian health care system involved with infectious disease control, and with the parts of this system that should be improved, in order to adjust to the new epidemiologic situation that may be encountered in the European region.