Outbreak Recognition and Reporting

An outbreak is generally defined as two or more cases of the same infection linked by time or location.

Inform Authorities: The person in charge of the practice must promptly inform the local UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) and the Infection Prevention and Control (IPC) team. They will provide an incident reference number (ILOG/HPZone) and advice on management.
Identify Cases: Record all affected individuals (patients and staff), the date and time of symptom onset, and any potential links.
Specimen Collection: Collect stool samples from symptomatic patients as soon as possible after the onset of symptoms if advised by the UKHSA or Environmental Health. Vomit specimens should generally not be sent for testing.

South West HPT

UK Health Security Agency
2 Rivergate, Temple Quay
Bristol
BS1 6EH

Telephone: 0300 303 8162 (option 1, then option 1)

Out of hours for health professionals requesting urgent advice: 0300 303 8162 (option 1)

Follaton House
Plymouth Road
Totnes
Devon
TQ9 5NE

Email: swhpt@ukhsa.gov.uk
Email for personal identifiable information (PII): phe.swhpt@nhs.net

Formerly Devon, Cornwall and Somerset HPT