Understanding how and why an outbreak occurred is critical to not only stop the current outbreak but prevent future outbreaks. Effective outbreak investigations require thorough preparation before you’re in the field.
This training will equip Environmental Health Specialists and public health staff with the skills needed for identifying the contributing factors and root causes of foodborne illness outbreaks.
Participants will learn to apply the “5 Whys” methodology and utilize key investigation tools to uncover root causes, enabling them to prevent future outbreaks effectively.
Learning Objectives
- Identify resources to aid in an outbreak investigation.
- Use evidence from an environmental assessment to identify contributing factors.
- Ask the “5 whys” to understand why contributing factors occurred.
- Identify appropriate root causes.
- Describe best control measures to prevent future outbreaks.
Format & Time Commitment
This case study is a combination instructor led group instruction and discussion, small group case study discussion questions, and the opportunity to practice utilizing CIFOR and IAFP resources.
- Complete this case study in-person or via bi-directional video.
- Divide into small groups or breakout rooms of no more than six participants.
- Choose instructors with foodborne outbreak investigation experience.
- Provide two field expert instructors and one technical support staff member for effective delivery.
- Allow 2.5 hours to complete the training.
Prerequisites & Audience
Ideally, the following resources should be completed or reviewed prior to taking this training:
- From Inspector to Investigator: Finding the Factors that Lead to Foodborne Outbreaks
- Environmental Assessment Training Series (EATS)
- Contributing Factor Definition Videos
- Root Cause Field Guide
This training is suitable for both new Environmental Health Specialists and experienced investigators seeking skill advancement.
Training Materials
There are three different outbreak scenarios: E.Coli, Campylobacter, and Norovirus. The framework for each scenario is the same, however, the pathogen of interest is different. Therefore, participants can practice their investigation skills in various outbreak scenarios.
Each training packet includes:
- Instructor guides and presentation materials
- Interactive case study exercises
- Group discussion frameworks
- Investigation tools and resources
- Assessment materials