Strengthening surveillance of and response to foodborne diseases: a practical manual. Stage 1: investigating foodborne disease outbreaks

Overview

Users of this module are encouraged to read first the introductory module of this manual, which sets the context for the guidance contained here and defines the scope and target audience. It also discusses the different risk-related terms used in the various disciplines involved in the prevention and control of foodborne diseases.

A glossary of terms contained at the back of the introductory module explains some of the technical terms used in the manual.

This module is structured around ten steps of outbreak investigation and is divided into three main sections. 

Section 1: Outlines the steps in an outbreak investigation that may be conducted in the office before leaving for the field.

Section 2: Details the steps needed in the field to investigate and control an outbreak.

Section 3: Lists the steps to be taken at the end of the investigation.

In real-life situations, the steps of an outbreak investigation may occur in a different order than that given here and often overlap.

It is important to remember that no general guide will fit each specific situation perfectly. It will always be necessary to modify the investigation process to account for local circumstances and the unique characteristics of the particular outbreak.