What do you do if you suspect a potential foodborne illness outbreak?

1 Recognize Symptoms

Recognizing the symptoms of a foodborne illness is the first crucial step. Common signs include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal pain, fever, and fatigue. These symptoms can surface within hours or may take days to appear after consuming contaminated food. If multiple people experience similar symptoms, especially those who have shared a meal, this could indicate a potential outbreak. It's important to listen to your body and the experiences of others around you to identify patterns that suggest more than just an isolated incident.

3 Preserve Evidence

If you still have access to the suspected food, preserving it is vital. Place it in a secure container and store it in the refrigerator or freezer. This evidence can be tested by health officials to identify pathogens or toxins. Avoid contaminating the sample with other foods or surfaces, and wash your hands thoroughly after handling it. The preservation of the suspected food can be the key link in determining the source of an outbreak.

4 Seek Medical Attention

If symptoms are severe or persist, seeking medical attention is crucial. A healthcare professional can provide treatment and conduct necessary tests to diagnose the specific cause of the illness. Inform your doctor about the potential foodborne illness and any related details, as this can aid in your treatment and contribute to the outbreak investigation. Medical records can serve as official documentation of the illness and can be used by public health officials to corroborate other cases.

5 Document Illness

Documenting your illness thoroughly can aid investigators and potentially prevent further cases. Keep a detailed record of what you ate, where you purchased or consumed it, and when symptoms began. Note the duration and severity of your symptoms, any medical care received, and any communication with health authorities. This documentation is particularly valuable if a large-scale investigation ensues, as it helps establish a timeline and identify commonalities among cases.

6 Cooperate with Officials

Finally, cooperation with health officials is essential for a successful investigation. They may interview you, request samples, or ask for additional information. Food scientists and epidemiologists rely on cooperation from the public to track down the source of an outbreak and implement control measures. Your input can contribute to preventing others from getting sick and to understanding how the outbreak occurred, which is crucial for preventing future incidents.

7 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?