Foodborne and Gastrointestinal Illness

Gastrointestinal (GI) illness is caused by a variety of different disease-causing germs. These germs can be contracted by:

ingesting contaminated food or beverages
contact with contaminated water
infected animals or their environments
infected people

These germs cause a variety of symptoms, such as diarrhea, nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, abdominal cramps and fever.

The Division of Disease Control investigates GI illnesses that are spread through food, water, and contact with infected animals or people.

Different types of food on rustic wooden table

Foodborne GI Illness

Many different disease-causing germs can contaminate foods and cause foodborne infections.

Waterborne GI Illness

Swimming-related illnesses are diseases that people can get from the water they swim and play in if the water has germs in it.

Animal-Related GI Illness

Zoonotic diseases are caused by germs that spread between animals and people.

Raw milk

Drinking raw or unpasteurized milk and products can increase the risk of you or your loved ones becoming sick.

Gastrointestinal Disease Data

Click here for current and historical numbers of gastrointestinal disease cases reported to the North Dakota Department of Health. Select the reportable disease that you are interested in under 'Select a Condition'. Current data will be displayed. To find historical data, select the year you are interested in under 'Select a Year'.