Vol. 5, No. 5, September–October 1999 | Paul S. Mead, Laurence Slutsker, Vance Dietz, Linda F. McCaig, Joseph S. Bresee, Craig Shapiro, Patricia M. Griffin, and Robert V. Tauxe
The article provides a comprehensive analysis of foodborne diseases in the United States, estimating that these diseases cause approximately 76 million illnesses, 325,000 hospitalizations, and 5,000 deaths annually. Known pathogens, such as Salmonella, Listeria, and Toxoplasma, account for an estimated 14 million illnesses, 60,000 hospitalizations, and 1,800 deaths. Unknown agents are responsible for the remaining 62 million illnesses, 265,000 hospitalizations, and 3,200 deaths. The study uses data from multiple surveillance systems and other sources, including the Foodborne Diseases Active Surveillance Network (FoodNet), to derive these estimates. The article also discusses the limitations and assumptions underlying the estimates, emphasizing the need for continued active surveillance and improved data collection to refine future estimates.The article provides a comprehensive analysis of foodborne diseases in the United States, estimating that these diseases cause approximately 76 million illnesses, 325,000 hospitalizations, and 5,000 deaths annually. Known pathogens, such as Salmonella, Listeria, and Toxoplasma, account for an estimated 14 million illnesses, 60,000 hospitalizations, and 1,800 deaths. Unknown agents are responsible for the remaining 62 million illnesses, 265,000 hospitalizations, and 3,200 deaths. The study uses data from multiple surveillance systems and other sources, including the Foodborne Diseases Active Surveillance Network (FoodNet), to derive these estimates. The article also discusses the limitations and assumptions underlying the estimates, emphasizing the need for continued active surveillance and improved data collection to refine future estimates.