In an over 40-year journey, ESCMID, born from a shared vision, continues to thrive as a leader in Clinical Microbiology (CM) and Infectious Diseases (ID). The Society's impact is evident through scientific events, educational initiatives, research support, and collaborations. ESCMID publishes journals, produces educational materials, issues guidelines, and offers grants, fostering international cooperation with societies and governments. ESCMID remains dedicated to advancing the prevention, diagnosis, and therapy of ID.
Take a look at the ESCMID yearbook, an overview of the Society’s activities throughout the past year. Published and distributed at ESCMID Global (formerly ECCMID) ESCMID’s annual congress.
As ESCMID continues to grow and expand in the fields of CM and ID, the Society has welcomed thousands of dedicated members over the years. Discover the story of ESCMID, our heritage, and the exciting journey ahead.
1983
ESCMID was founded in 1983 by 10 colleagues, with the first European Congress of Clinical Microbiology being held in Bologna, Italy the same year. The association, known at the time as ESCM, quickly developed and founded its first Study Groups on antibiotics and Antimicrobial Resistance (AMR). In 1990, ESCM became ESCMID, joining forces with counterparts from the field of infectious diseases in a visionary step that set it on track to become a global leader in the field.
1993
Entering into its second decade, ESCMID launched its first journal, Clinical Microbiology and Infection (CMI), in 1995, which is still in publication today. During this time, ESCMID also launched its Summer School, a major annual event, dedicated to postgraduate and continuing medical education. In addition, the ESCMID Awards were introduced to acknowledge excellence and innovation in the fields of CM and ID.
2003
ESCMID launched a series of new activities to improve clinical practice, including opening the first Collaborative Centres, initiating the Observership programme, and launching the Trainee Association of ESCMID (TAE). Furthermore, ESCMID began its medical guideline activity and appointed the first Guidelines Director. The Parity Commission was also established to focus on improving the representation of minorities and gender, as well as geographic balance in the Society.
2013
The last decade has been dominated by new and re-emerging infectious diseases and the growing global concern of AMR. This increased focus on infection has propelled ESCMID into the media spotlight. ESCMID is dedicated to helping in the fight against new and old threats to global health. During this time, ESCMID initiated projects like EUCIC, and CAESAR in collaboration with WHO and RIVM. Today, ESCMID and its members stand ready to contribute significantly to worldwide health challenges.
2023
After celebrating 40 years of excellence, ESCMID is entering its fifth decade of leading the world in the field of infection. In the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic, ESCMID recognised the need for modernisation across all sectors. The yearly congress grew into a hybrid online and in-person format, allowing for an extended global reach. ESCMID has also reorganised to prioritise education and pandemic preparedness, addressing emerging infections and AMR as strategic pillars moving forward. ESCMID will continue to adapt to meet the evolving challenges across the fields of CM and ID.
