Food poisoning and infectious diseases
We investigate and try to prevent the spread of infectious diseases and food poisoning. We are notified of outbreaks by:
- UK Health Security Agency
- GPs
- laboratories
- members of the public
- businesses
- other local authorities
When we're notified, we work with the UK Health Security Agency to investigate how and where the infection occurred by contacting each patient.
We then give advice on how to prevent the infection spreading or reoccurring - in some cases, this may involve taking action against unsatisfactory food premises.
If anyone with symptoms is a food handler or works in direct contact with high risk groups, they cannot return to work until they're symptom free for 48 hours. They must also tell their employer.
Parents of children aged under 5 or anyone unable to implement good standards of personal hygiene should stay away from school and other places until they've been symptom free for 48 hours.
There are other potential sources of illness, apart from food - illness can be caused by contact with:
- animals
- contaminated water
- occupational exposure
- other people carrying the disease
We share our food safety service with Peterborough City Council - email the team at foodsafety@peterborough.gov.uk or call 01733 207 184.