Robert Koch Institute (RKI)

The Robert Koch Institute (RKI) is Germany’s public health institute. As such, it assesses, analyses and investigates diseases that are highly dangerous, in widespread transmission or of major public interest or public health importance. Key words include HIV/AIDS, influenza, cancer and allergies. In addition, the RKI acts as a ‘radar’ for the early detection of new public health risks.

Several scientific committees are based at the Robert Koch Institute that provide advice on technical and regulatory aspects of the RKI’s tasks. One of these is the Standing Committee on Vaccination, which prepares vaccination recommendations. Moreover, the RKI is responsible for preparing and coordinating the federal health reporting and authorising the import and use of human embryonic stem cells.