"The Commission proposes specific measures to prevent an outbreak of Covid-19 cases in the coming autumn and winter season. The Commission urges Member States to put in place the necessary strategies. including for vaccination and surveillance of Covid-19, to respond to future outbreaks in a rapid and sustained way," the EU executive announced in a statement.

"The main objective of the actions proposed by the Commission is to increase the use of vaccines, including both adapted and new vaccines, and to ensure that all citizens are well protected," Brussels asks countries to "develop national immunisation strategies" and ensure sufficient logistical capacities "to administer the vaccines as soon as the new and adapted vaccines are delivered."

In addition to vaccination, the European Commission calls for "surveillance of respiratory viruses such as influenza" and stresses that restrictive measures such as the use of face masks "remain a crucial part of the Member States' toolbox" to limit the spread.

In addition, Brussels calls for "strong health systems and capacities in all Member States".