Ricardo Mexia

Ricardo Mexia is a Public Health Doctor and Epidemiologist with a Master in Public Health from the National School of Public Health in Lisbon and advanced training in Field Epidemiology through the European Programme for Intervention Epidemiology Training (EPIET) at the European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control. He also holds a Post-Graduate degree in Healthcare Management from Universidade Católica Portuguesa and a Medical Degree from Universidade Nova de Lisboa.

Currently, Ricardo works at the Epidemiology Department of the National Health Institute Doutor Ricardo Jorge, where he develops and coordinates epidemiological surveillance, outbreak investigations, and preparedness initiatives. His research has covered migrant health, foodborne outbreaks, and the health dimension of mass gatherings, including events such as the Fátima pilgrimage, Eurovision Song Contest 2018, and World Youth Day 2023.

In parallel, Ricardo is the President of the Lumiar Civil Parish Council in Lisbon, where he leads local governance initiatives in social action, education, culture, sports, and urban development. Sustainability is also a significant concern, and the Renewable Energy Community of Telheiras/Lumiar is just an example of the efforts being made locally.

He served as President of the EUPHA Infectious Diseases Control Section and was President of the National Union of Public Health Doctors from 2015 to 2022. Additionally, he acts as Chief Medical Officer for major music and cultural festivals such as Rock in Rio, Sónar Lisboa, and Brunch Electronik.

At the international level, Ricardo collaborates with the World Health Organization Regional Office for Africa, where he has led Joint External Evaluation missions in São Tomé e Príncipe, Guinea-Bissau, and Cabo Verde, contributing to strengthening health security and preparedness in the region. He is also a member of the ECDC Advisory Forum, the EU Health Task Force Advisory Group, and the HERA Civil Society Forum, representing the European Public Health Association (EUPHA).

Ricardo has authored multiple scientific publications and presented more than 40 communications at international conferences. He regularly teaches Public Health, Epidemiology, and Healthcare Management at universities including the University of Lisbon, University of Algarve, Universidade Atlântica, ISCTE, and Universidade Católica. Beyond academia and public service, Ricardo is a frequent commentator in national media on public health issues and has been actively involved in professional associations and international networks throughout his career. His professional journey reflects a sustained commitment to epidemic preparedness, mass gatherings, public health leadership, and the interface between science, policy, and society.