The Washington State Department of Health (DOH) has recently introduced a new tool aimed at facilitating the reporting of food poisoning cases and food safety complaints across the state. The online Foodborne Illness Notification System (FINS) is now available for all residents of Washington to voice their food safety concerns easily.

Foodborne illnesses, commonly referred to as food poisoning, stem from consuming contaminated food or beverages. Despite being preventable, statistics show that one in six Americans falls victim to food poisoning annually, with higher risks for severe illness among individuals over 65, children under 5, and pregnant or immunocompromised individuals.

The primary goal of FINS is to assist local health authorities in pinpointing the sources of food-related illnesses promptly and responding swiftly to outbreaks. The system operates in three simple steps for reporting:

1. Submit your food safety concern through the FINS website if you have experienced or suspect a case of foodborne illness. Symptoms to watch for include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, stomach pain, or fever.
2. Report any food-related concerns at establishments like restaurants, grocery stores, food trucks, events, or food delivery services. Anonymously report observations of poor food handling, presence of pests or rodents, unwell food handlers, facility hygiene issues, or deliberate contamination.
3. Once your report is submitted via the FINS webpage, it is forwarded to the local health jurisdiction, triggering an email notification to the respective authority for review.

Upon receiving a FINS report, local health jurisdictions conduct thorough reviews using various methods to assess the need for further actions. Responses to outbreaks may involve reaching out to the food establishment, interviewing staff, conducting inspections, or contacting the reporter for additional details.

While foodborne illnesses can lead to severe health complications, including fatalities, many outbreaks often go unreported. Officials stress the importance of utilizing FINS to prompt necessary actions that promote food safety in Washington.

It is crucial to note that FINS is not a substitute for medical attention. Individuals experiencing symptoms like vomiting or diarrhea are advised to stay hydrated and seek medical assistance in case of persistent symptoms, high fever, dehydration signs, or other concerning indications.

For more information on food safety practices, residents can visit the DOH website and familiarize themselves with preventive measures and reporting protocols. Stay informed and contribute to a safer food environment in Washington by utilizing the new FINS tool.