Epidemiologists use a variety of methods to investigate foodborne illnesses, including:
1. Surveillance Systems: These systems collect data on reported cases of foodborne illnesses to identify trends and outbreaks. 2. Epidemiological Studies: Case-control and cohort studies help identify the sources and risk factors associated with foodborne illnesses. 3. Laboratory Testing: Testing of food samples and patient specimens can identify the specific pathogens responsible for the illness. 4. Traceback Investigations: These investigations trace the contaminated food back to its source to identify where the contamination occurred.
