Decrease Epidemiological Threats with Environmental Controls and Testing

Alabama Department of Public Health (ADPH) Central Office staff worked to customize the 6 Modules from the NEHA Epi-Ready training to incorporate Alabama policies, processes and protocols. The PowerPoint presentations include modules on Surveillance, Outbreak Determination, Environmental Assessment, Epidemiological Investigation, Laboratory Guidance, Concluding Actions, Report Writing and a Case Study Exercise. Each module included hands-on activities for the attendees to work on in identified groups.

Collaboration across the disciplines was essential to make the material informative, accurate and complete. Along with the development of the Modules, Central Office staff compiled resource, reference, and other materials needed when conducting a FBO. Examples of reference materials included the FBO Protocol, Acute Foodborne Gastroenteritis Reference Table, Foodborne Illness Investigation Sample Collection and Submission Criteria, laboratory slips for human and food specimens, Food Safety Temperature Poster, and Interviewing Techniques. All materials were incorporated into a manual for each training participant. Other resources included FBO investigation kits containing resources needed to collect clinical and food specimens such as sterile cups, mini-tongs, sample knife, scoop-an’ bag, and gloves allowing for more timely collection of specimens.ADPH trained over 250 disease intervention specialists, nurses, environmentalists, epidemiologists, social workers, health service administrators, and administrative support assistants across Alabama. Each PHA received 10 DETECT Kits for a total of 110 kits. Established protocols and procedures were implemented in multiple outbreaks after the completion of training. A statewide outbreak network drive was developed that contains templates for forms and procedures used and folders for all current outbreaks.

The training and materials developed have been modified and are useful for all types of events including waterborne and institutional outbreaks. Through the establishment of teams and processes, response, communication and outcomes are more efficient and organized.