Essential Insights: Mesa County Public Health Reveals Key Data on Food-Borne Illnesses

Food-borne Illnesses on the Rise in Mesa County: What You Need to Know

In Grand Junction, Colorado, Mesa County Public Health (MCPH) has reported 225 suspected and confirmed cases of food-borne illness in 2024 alone. Sally Born, the Environmental Health Manager at MCPH, explains how viruses often don’t grow in food but can still make us sick when we consume contaminated items.

The MCPH investigates these illnesses through two teams: one that looks into suspected cases and another that focuses on confirmed ones. They noted that many cases likely go unreported. For every confirmed case, there could be more that haven’t been linked back to the health department. Born emphasizes the importance of reporting these issues so data can be accurately captured.

The financial impact of food-borne illnesses is significant. MCPH estimates that each reported case costs around $2,500, factoring in lost work, healthcare expenses, and food waste.

As we move into warmer months, food safety becomes even more crucial. In 2025, so far, 32 cases have already been investigated. With the rise in temperature, experts expect this number to climb. “If you’re hosting a gathering, be mindful of how long food is left out,” Born advises. Food left out for over four hours can start to harbor harmful pathogens.

To keep your food safe, follow these simple tips:

• Wash your hands and keep cooking spaces clean.
• Store leftovers properly. Instead of letting them cool down overnight on your countertop, put them in the fridge or freezer after cooling for a short time.
• Monitor food temperatures carefully.

Common symptoms of food-borne illnesses include nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea. If you experience these symptoms, it’s important to consult a healthcare provider.

Recent studies show that food-borne illnesses affect millions of Americans every year. In fact, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) estimates that one in six Americans will get sick from contaminated food. Taking proper precautions can help reduce these numbers significantly.

Stay informed and practice safe food handling — it’s a small effort that can lead to big health benefits. For more information, visit Mesa County Public Health.

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