Certified Professional Food Safety (CP-FS) Practice Exam

How should a food establishment respond to a confirmed case of foodborne illness?

1. Discontinue all operations

2. Immediately sanitize all areas

3. Inform the local health department

4. Ignore it unless more cases occur

The correct answer is: Inform the local health department

When a food establishment receives confirmation of a foodborne illness, the priority is to ensure public health and safety, making it essential to inform the local health department. This is critical because the health department can assist in investigating the outbreak, identifying the source of the illness, and implementing measures to prevent further cases. They have the authority and resources to conduct epidemiological studies and inspections, which are vital in managing the situation effectively. By notifying the health department, the establishment not only complies with legal obligations but also contributes to a broader public health response. This action facilitates tracking the outbreak, potentially preventing additional illnesses, and provides guidance on necessary actions the establishment may need to take in relation to the incident. While sanitizing areas and potentially suspending operations are important considerations in managing a response, neither should occur without first consulting the local health authorities, who will dictate the most appropriate course of action based on the context of the situation. Ignoring the issue is never a responsible option, as it poses ongoing risks to customers and the community.