To whom must a licensee report an epidemic outbreak?

A licensee is required to report an epidemic outbreak to both the licensing authority and the local health officer. This is crucial for several reasons. The local health officer is responsible for monitoring public health concerns in the community, and timely reporting allows them to take necessary actions to control the outbreak, protect public health, and coordinate a response.

Additionally, reporting to the licensing authority is essential because it ensures that the facility is compliant with state regulations regarding public health reporting. Licensing agencies need to track these incidents to enforce health and safety standards, enhance oversight, and ensure that the facility is capable of handling such situations appropriately. This dual reporting mechanism helps maintain transparency and accountability among health facilities, ensuring comprehensive public health safety measures are in place.