Overview
Washington State Department of Health is working with local and federal public health partners to investigate a case of Salmonella that is likely linked to consuming contaminated Jif brand peanut butter products. This is linked to a nationwide peanut butter outbreak involving 11 other states.
Washington State Case Information
Washington has 1 case from Whitman County. This person was not hospitalized.
Advice to Consumers
- Immediately dispose of Jif peanut butter with lot codes 1274425 through 2140425, with “425” at the end of the first 7 numbers. Lot codes are included alongside best-if-used-by date.
- Refrain from eating any of the recalled peanut butter products.
- Wash and sanitize utensils that may have touched the recalled peanut butter.
- Those who have eaten the recalled product and feel ill should consult their health care provider.
Advice to Retailers
- Retailers should not sell or serve recalled Jif brand peanut butter.
- Retailers should wash and sanitize containers and surfaces that may have come in contact with recalled peanut butter.
Investigation Details
Nationwide, the Salmonella outbreak has led to two hospitalizations, but no deaths. Other states involved in the outbreak include Arkansas, Georgia, Illinois, Massachusetts, Missouri, New York, North Carolina, Ohio, South Carolina, Texas, and Virginia. CDC is the lead agency for this outbreak.
About Salmonella
Salmonellosis is a common bacterial infection caused by any of more than 2,000 strains of Salmonella. These bacteria infect the intestinal tract and occasionally the blood of both humans and animals. Annually, there are 700 to 1000 cases reported in Washington.
Symptoms of Salmonella
Symptoms typically appear 1 to 3 days after exposure and can include:
- Diarrhea that can be bloody
- Fever
- Chills
- Abdominal discomfort
- Occasional vomiting
Symptoms can last 4 to 7 days and usually resolve on their own with fluids and rest. Children younger than 5 years, adults 65 years and older, and people with weakened immune systems may experience more severe illnesses that require medical treatment or hospitalization.
Prevention
- Do not consume the recalled peanut butter.
- Avoid eating high-risk foods, including raw or undercooked eggs, undercooked ground beef or poultry, and unpasteurized or raw milk.
- Wash your hands after contact with animals, their food, or their living environment.