Infectology

Safe Food Handling

The food supply in the United States is among the safest in the world. However, when certain disease-causing bacteria or pathogens contaminate food, they can cause foodborne illness, often called “food poisoning.”

What You Need to Know about Foodborne Illnesses

While the American food supply is among the safest in the world, the Federal government estimates that there are about 48 million cases of foodborne illness annually — the equivalent of sickening 1 in 6 Americans each year. And each year these illnesses result in an estimated 128 000 hospitalizations and 3 000 deaths.

Handling Food Safely While Eating Outdoors

Picnic and barbecue season offers lots of opportunities for outdoor fun with family and friends. But these warm weather events also present opportunities for foodborne bacteria to thrive. As food heats up in summer temperatures, bacteria multiply rapidly.

Fungal Disease-Specific Research

NIAID-supported research for fungal diseases includes studying the basic biology of the organisms that cause these diseases to developing vaccines and better ways to diagnose, treat, and prevent infection.