Shigella Outbreak Response for Church & Community Kitchens

Immediate Response & Health Department Notification

Upon learning of a confirmed or suspected Shigella case linked to your kitchen, contact your local health department immediately—do not wait for test confirmation. Shigella spreads through fecal-oral transmission, so the CDC and FSIS prioritize rapid isolation and investigation. Document the date, time, and name of the health official you speak with, then follow their instructions on food service restrictions, which may include temporary closure or modified operations. Maintain transparency with your health department throughout—they will guide specimen collection, trace food sources, and identify exposed individuals.

Staff Protocols & Communication Requirements

Immediately identify all staff members who worked during the outbreak window (typically 1–3 days before the first illness). Require symptomatic staff to stay home until they've been symptom-free for at least 48 hours without medication, per CDC guidance. Notify staff of the outbreak factually but without naming sick individuals; explain enhanced handwashing protocols, dedicated hand-washing stations, and the prohibition of bare-hand contact with ready-to-eat foods. Document which staff attended food safety training and their roles during preparation. Provide clear written communication about symptoms (diarrhea, stomach cramps, fever) so staff can self-report and seek testing if needed.

Cleaning, Product Checks & Documentation

Deep clean and sanitize all food contact surfaces, equipment, and high-touch areas (doorknobs, serving utensils, refrigerator handles) using EPA-approved sanitizers; document the date, time, products used, and staff responsible. Trace and remove all food items prepared during the outbreak window—work with your supplier to verify sourcing and check for recalls via the FDA's Enforcement Reports. Retain food purchase records, preparation logs, temperature logs, and staff schedules for at least 30 days for health department review. Implement enhanced documentation going forward: daily cleaning logs, staff symptom self-assessments, and handwashing verification. Consider testing high-risk surfaces for Shigella (your health department may request this).

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