Certified Dietary Manager (CDM) Practice Exam

What constitutes a foodborne illness outbreak?

1. One case of illness from food

2. Two or more cases from different foods

3. Two or more cases from eating a common food

4. A single food contamination

The correct answer is: Two or more cases from eating a common food

A foodborne illness outbreak is defined as the occurrence of two or more cases of a similar illness resulting from the ingestion of a common food. This definition is crucial for identifying and managing foodborne illnesses, as it helps public health officials understand the scope of an issue and take necessary actions to protect public health. When multiple individuals consume the same contaminated food and experience similar symptoms, it indicates a potential problem with that specific food item, leading to further investigation. This collaborative aspect, where two or more cases point back to a shared source, helps determine the food involved, the potential pathogen, and the necessary measures for prevention. In contrast, situations involving a single case of illness or contamination do not constitute an outbreak as they lack the requisite number of individuals affected to signal a widespread health concern. This distinction underscores the importance of tracking epidemiological data and cases, facilitating an effective public health response.