Food Safety

Food Illnesses & Restaurant Complaints

The Office of Epidemiology works in collaboration with Maricopa County Department of Public Health (MCDPH) Community Health Nursing, Maricopa County Department of Environmental Services, Arizona Department of Health Services, Maricopa County Medical Examiner, and other entities to investigate and respond to foodborne disease outbreaks. 

You can learn more about signs and symptoms of common foodborne illnesses here. 

Outbreaks

Outbreaks could be caused by the consumption of contaminated food or water, by exposure to infected persons or animals, or by other means.

Investigations

Investigations may include:

• Requesting restaurant or other site inspections (conducted by Environmental Services)
• Interviewing patients and contacts
• Obtaining medical records and specimens
• Reviewing laboratory results
• Analyzing statistical data
• Other tasks