The document is a practical handbook developed by the European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control (ECDC) that provides guidance on how to design, plan, conduct, and evaluate simulation exercises in public health settings. Its main purpose is to help organisations improve their preparedness and response to communicable disease outbreaks by using structured exercises as a training and evaluation tool. The handbook explains different types of exercises, outlines the steps involved in organising them, and highlights the importance of clear objectives, coordination, and evaluation. Overall, it aims to strengthen emergency preparedness by enabling organisations to identify weaknesses, improve collaboration, and enhance their ability to respond effectively to public health crises.