This presentation will demonstrate an integrated approach to the management of foodborne illness complaint investigations in a municipal health department. Prior to May 1995, foodborne illness complaint calls from the public were being referred to the environmental health program for reporting. Information vital to the investigation was not being collected. Currently, the Epidemiology program receives all foodborne-illness complaint calls from the public and collects all information including a detailed history (i.e. three-day food history) using a Foodborne Illness Investigation form. Foodborne illness data is analyzed using EpiInfo. Epidemiology staff analyze the data to rule-out outbreak(s) and coordinates the investigation, testing of victim(s), and collection of specimens. Epidemiology staff initiates referrals to the Environmental Health Program, Public Health Laboratory, Health Officer, and/or other public health agencies. Updates on foodborne illness outbreaks are presented at weekly Epidemiology committee meetings. This collaboration of programs has proven to be an effective approach to foodborne illness investigations, surveillance, and response to incidents that may require immediate public health intervention.
Learning Objectives: 1. Develop guidelines for the management of foodborne-illness complaints from the public. 2. Evaluate guidelines for the management of foodborne-illness complaints from the public. 3. Recognize a foodborne-illness outbreak.
Keywords: Food Safety, Epidemiology
Presenting author's disclosure statement:
Organization/institution whose products or services will be discussed: None
I do not have any significant financial interest/arrangement or affiliation with any organization/institution whose products or services are being discussed in this session.