What to know
On this page, get answers to commonly asked questions about PulseNet
What is PulseNet?
PulseNet is a national laboratory network consisting of 83 public health and food regulatory laboratories. PulseNet gathers information into a national database to identify bacteria making people sick and detect potential outbreaks.
Why was PulseNet Developed?
PulseNet was developed in response to the 1993 Escherichia coli O157:H7 outbreak that caused more than 700 people to get sick, and four deaths. CDC determined outbreaks could be identified sooner if all public health laboratories could perform the same DNA fingerprinting on bacteria from patients.
Why is PulseNet Effective?
PulseNet is effective because all of the laboratories in the network identify foodborne bacteria in real time.
Isn't It Better to Prevent Outbreaks Before They Happen?
PulseNet, along with other foodborne surveillance systems, is the best tool for detecting problems within the food safety systems that may otherwise go unnoticed. Identifying problems allows CDC to take rapid action, identify the contaminated food(s), and remove it from the market. Long term, PulseNet and public health partners can pinpoint defective food manufacturing processes which can be changed to make the food supply safer.
How can I contact PulseNet?
- For general PulseNet questions, please e-mail pulsenet@cdc.gov
- For PulseNet laboratory protocols or troubleshooting, please e-mail pulsenetngslab@cdc.gov