Profil épidémiologique des intoxications alimentaires dans la wilaya de Mila

Abstract

Food poisoning and collective foodborne illnesses (TIAC) represent a major public health concern. This retrospective descriptive study aims to outline the epidemiological profile of food poisoning cases recorded in the wilaya of Mila over a five-year period from 2020 to 2024. It is based on the analysis of 942 cases documented by the Public Health Directorate (DSP) and the five Public Proximity Health Establishments (EPSP) of the wilaya. The variables studied include the year of occurrence, gender, age, municipality, type of incriminated food, place of exposure, season, and clinical manifestations. The study reveals a prevalence of 0.099%, with the highest annual incidence reaching 36.75 cases per 100,000 inhabitants in 2021. Young adults (aged 20–44) are the most affected age group, with a slight predominance of females. The main implicated foods are pastries (36%), followed by meats and dairy products. Most cases were observed in spring and autumn, with a notable concentration in the most populated municipalities such as Mila and Grarem Gouga. The results highlight a strong seasonality in case distribution and underline the influence of socioenvironmental factors (temperature, social gatherings, and food practices) in the occurrence of TIAC. This study calls for strengthened prevention measures, improved community awareness, and enhanced coordination among local public health stakeholders.