Foodborne Disease Surveillance in the Local Health Authority (ASL CN2): Reporting Trends from 2013 to 2024 and Public Health Implications

Abstract

Foodborne diseases (FBDs) remain a significant public health concern. This study analyses notifications of FBDs reported in the Piedmont Region and the ASL CN2 local health authority over the period 2013–2024. The most frequently identified etiological agents were Campylobacter and Salmonella, showing respectively increasing and stable regional trends, consistent with national and European patterns. A marked decline in notifications was observed in 2020, likely attributable to the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic. Although ASL CN2 reports lower absolute numbers, incidence rates are often higher than regional values, suggesting a high sensitivity of the local surveillance system. The analysis also highlights the relevance of the broad category of unspecified foodborne infections/intoxications, which continues to represent a substantial share of notifications. Overall, the findings underscore the importance of maintaining sensitive and continuous surveillance systems, growth microbiological diagnostics, and promoting targeted preventive interventions, particularly for the most vulnerable population groups.