To rapidly detect foodborne outbreaks, scientists in public health laboratories participate in the national molecular subtyping network called PulseNet.
Founded by CDC and APHL in 1996, PulseNet allows scientists across the country to compare the DNA fingerprints of bacteria from ill persons to determine if those individuals might have become sick by eating the same product. Bacteria grown from the implicated food product can also be tested and possibly linked to the ill persons.
APHL supports the PulseNet work of member laboratories through training, technical meetings, advocacy, research grants, information dissemination and capability assessment. APHL is also involved in the development of new PulseNet methods and in the growth of PulseNet International.
Early detection of foodborne outbreaks allows for the quick removal of dangerous products from the marketplace. Any problems in the food delivery system that allowed the contamination to occur can also be corrected as a result of outbreak investigations.