Strengthening surveillance of and response to foodborne diseases: stage one manual (part A): using indicator- and event-based surveillance to detect foodborne events

Overview

This publication updates the document published in 2017 entitled “Strengthening surveillance of and response to foodborne diseases: a practical manual. Stage 1. Using indicator- and event-based surveillance to detect foodborne events”.

Guidance is provided for countries that are beginning to strengthen surveillance and response to foodborne diseases. Essential components of a stage-one system are outlined, including indicator-based and event-based surveillance, steps in rapid risk assessment, and responsibilities of response teams. Links to national capacities required under the International Health Regulations are explained.

Updates include a vision for surveillance and response aligned with the strategic goals in the self-assessment. Corrective and preventive measures are described in greater detail, with emphasis on collaboration among public health, food safety, and laboratory authorities. Decision trees are linked to strategic goals to support structured planning. System attributes have been updated to emphasize equity.

An implementation tool in the annex supports countries in documenting current capacities, identifying gaps, and establishing priority actions for strengthening their systems.