To which group should healthcare facilities report outbreaks of infections?

Healthcare facilities are required to report outbreaks of infections to The Department of Health to ensure public safety and effective disease control. This reporting is crucial because it allows health authorities to monitor trends in infectious diseases, implement necessary public health interventions, and allocate resources effectively. By notifying the Department of Health, facilities contribute to larger surveillance systems that aim to prevent the spread of infections in the community and beyond, thereby enhancing overall public health.

Reporting to private organizations or relying solely on a facility's management team would not fulfill the necessity of broader public health responsibilities. Additionally, ignoring the need to report outbreaks could lead to unaddressed public health risks and potential escalation of infections within the community.