[Foodborne disease outbreaks in China from 1992 to 2001 national foodborne disease surveillance system]

Abstract

Objective: To study the foodborne disease outbreaks in the areas covered by National Foodborne Disease Surveillance System.

Methods: Total 13 provinces were included in the surveillance system, and the foodborne disease outbreaks data during 1992 to 2001 were collected.

Results: During 1992-2001, a total of 5770 outbreaks of foodborne disease were reported. These outbreaks caused a reported 162,995 persons to become ill. Among outbreaks for which the etiology was determined, bacterial pathogens caused the largest percentage of outbreaks (38.5%) and the largest percentage of cases (50.9%). Vibrio parahaemolyticus (31.1%) accounted for the largest number of outbreaks and cases. Chemical agents caused 37.5% of outbreaks and 28.6% of cases.

Conclusion: More work needs to be done to improve the foodborne disease surveillance system.