Epidemiology of food poisoning in Zhejiang province, 2006-2011

Objective To understand the epidemiological characteristics and trend of food poisoning in Zhejiang province in recent years, and suggest the prevention and control priorities. Methods Descriptive epidemiological analysis was conducted on the incidence data of food poisoning reported through the public health emergency surveillance system in Zhejiang from 2006 to 2011, and comparison was made with the national data during the same period and the data in Zhejiang from 1992 to 2004. Results A total of 106 food poisoning events were reported in Zhejiang from 2006 to 2011. The majority was caused by microorganism contamination (67.92%), in which Vibrio parahaemolyticus was the most common pathogen (33.33%). The case fatality rates of puffer fish, poisonous mushroom and nitrite poisonings were much higher than those of other food poisonings. Most food poisoning occurred during May to October (71.70%), and the incidence of food poisoning caused by microorganism peaked in summer and autumn. Schools and enterprises were the major places where the food poisoning was prone to occurred (54.72% and 14.15% respectively). Food services, including canteens and restaurants, were responsible for the most poisoning events (48.11% and 17.92%, respectively). Conclusion The incidence of food poisoning declined in Zhejiang in recent years, and the severity was mild than before. Foods services are the key places for food poisoning prevention and control, and Vibrio parahaemolyticus is the major pathogen to which more attention should be paid in food poisoning prevention and control.