How is a foodborne-illness outbreak defined?

A foodborne-illness outbreak is defined as a situation where two or more people become ill after consuming food from the same source, such as a restaurant or catered event. This definition is crucial in public health to identify and address potential sources of contamination or food safety violations effectively.

When multiple individuals experience similar illness symptoms after eating the same meal, it raises the likelihood that the cause is related to a shared food item or handling procedure, indicating a possible outbreak that requires investigation. This collective response to illness helps public health officials track the source of the contamination, notify others who may be at risk, and implement measures to prevent further illness. The definition underscores the importance of monitoring not just single cases of foodborne illness but recognizing patterns that may indicate larger health risks.