A Medical Assistant receives an unexpected email from an individual claiming to be a public health official, requesting the aggregate number of influenza cases reported at their facility within the past month. To comply with regulations and maintain patient confidentiality, what is the appropriate course of action for the Medical Assistant to take?
Report the request to their supervisor or the designated Privacy Officer
Ask the sender to come to the clinic in person for verification
Inform the individual that the facility does not disclose patient information via email
Respond to the email with the requested information as it benefits public health