Foodborne outbreak reports in Switzerland from 2007 to 2021

Abstract

Foodborne related outbreaks in Switzerland are identified by the cantonal authorities and reported to the Federal Food Safety and Veterinary Office (FSVO). Between 2007 and 2021, 200 outbreaks were reported. At least 4668 people fell ill, 303 were hospitalized and 18 died. The main pathogens detected were Salmonella sp. (25), Campylobacter sp. (17), noroviruses (16) and coagulase-positive staphylococci (16). The outbreaks took place in restaurants, canteens and caterings (85), private households (19), kindergartens and schools (13), and take-away establishments (9). In order to manage foodborne outbreaks, the FSVO is now providing a toolbox that includes a website, a practical guide and a set of 4 manuals and further aids.