[The infectious disease epidemiology research network--a bridge between science and public health service. The example of the network for foodborne infections].

In order to respond to emerging food borne diseases, a new data-driven approach guided by epidemiologic and microbiologic data has been developed in Germany. An interdisciplinary network of scientists at the national, regional and local levels conducted surveillance and epidemiologic research of foodborne pathogens (Shiga toxin-producing Escherichia coli (STEC), Salmonella and Campylobacter). The objectives of the network include (1) determining incidence and distribution of STEC and Salmonella, (2) assessing the importance of typing systems for Campylobacter, (3) determining risk factors for sporadic STEC infections, (4) developing a system for detection of disperse outbreaks, including a national reference library of pulsed-field gel electrophoresis (PFGE) patterns, (5) examining risk factors for outbreaks, (6) carrying out a quantitative microbiological risk assessment for consumption of fresh chicken and (7) determining long-term sequelae of HUS patients.