How many cases define a food borne disease outbreak?

A foodborne disease outbreak is defined as an occurrence where two or more people experience similar illnesses after consuming the same food. This definition is important because it helps health authorities identify and respond to potential public health threats by tracing the source of the contamination. When analyzing foodborne outbreaks, having at least two cases is crucial, as a single case may not provide sufficient evidence of a widespread issue or contamination event.

In practice, recognizing outbreaks with two or more cases allows for better investigation and control measures, helping to prevent further illnesses. This means that the identification of a common food source can be ascertained, leading to appropriate public health actions such as recalls or warnings.