When must the County Health Department be notified about pesticide sampling?

The requirement to notify the County Health Department about pesticide sampling when the illness is confirmed reflects the importance of timely communication in public health. Once a pesticide-related illness is confirmed, it indicates a potential risk not only to the affected individual but also to the community at large. This confirmation helps the health department initiate any necessary public health responses, including further investigation, monitoring of environmental conditions, or intervention to prevent additional exposures.

Prompt notification enables the health authorities to assess the extent of the exposure, investigate the sources of contamination, and implement measures to protect public health. The timing of the notification is crucial, as it allows health officials to take swift action to mitigate risks associated with pesticide exposure. This aligns with public health principles which prioritize the protection of communities from identified health hazards.