Communicable diseases pose a risk to public health. The division monitors these diseases, publishing regular reports on the epidemiological situation, laying down and implementing prevention and control strategies.
The division issues directives, prepares legislation and devises recommendations for medical profession and public.
In this way, it aims – in cooperation with the cantons, international health bodies and other partners:
- to inform members of the public about – and protect them against – pathogens,
- to recognise risks at an early stage,
- to limit the effects of outbreaks and epidemics of communicable diseases in Switzerland.
In addition, the division is currently handling the issues of antibiotic resistance, infections acquired in hospitals and care homes, and vaccinations.

Roy Salveter
Head of Communicable Diseases Division, a.i.
Last modification 31.01.2023
Contact
Federal Office of Public Health FOPH
Prevention and Healthcare Provision Directorate
Communicable Diseases Division
Schwarzenburgstrasse 157
3003
Bern
Switzerland
Tel.
+41 58 463 87 06