Salmonella Outbreak Tied to Peanut Butter

(RxWiki News) The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) is alerting the public to a Salmonella outbreak that may be tied to peanut butter.

As of publication time, the CDC was reporting that 14 people in 12 states had been infected in this outbreak so far. While two had been hospitalized, none had died, the agency reported.

Because not everyone reports Salmonella infections, the number of people sickened in this outbreak is likely higher than the official reported number.

The CDC said four of five of the patients they interviewed reported consuming Jif brand peanut butter. As a result of this information, the maker of Jif peanut butter recalled several types of creamy, crunchy, natural and reduced fat peanut butters.

Recalled products included lot codes 1274425–2140425, with “425” at the end of the first seven numbers, according to the CDC. Officials were working to determine whether more products were contaminated.

“Do not eat, sell, or serve recalled Jif brand peanut butter,” the CDC wrote in its online outbreak notice. “Throw it away. This product has a very long shelf life, so be sure to check any Jif peanut butter you have at home to make sure it has not been recalled.”

People infected with Salmonella typically develop fever, diarrhea and stomach cramps between six hours and six days after coming into contact with the bacteria. Most cases resolve without the need for medical treatment within a week, but some cases can lead to hospitalization or even be fatal. The very young and elderly, as well as those with compromised immune systems, face the highest level of risk.

If you believe you have been exposed to Salmonella, reach out to your health care provider.