Outbreak Investigations: A Brief Primer for Gastroenterologists

Transmission of pathogens during endoscopy and subsequent outbreak investigations generated by potential nosocomial transmissions have become a major concern for gastroenterologists. These investigations have resulted in significant media coverage for individual institutions and can cause massive disruption to the institution if not handled well. Gastroenterologists should have a central role in investigation of these outbreaks and management of the communications and patient notification that is required. This article summarizes important aspects of outbreak investigations for physicians who do not frequently manage these investigations and gives practical advice for how gastroenterologists can help identify outbreaks and manage these investigations successfully.