The symptoms of different salmonella strains don't change, regardless of the food source of the original infection. Many types of salmonella bacteria can sicken people; symptoms may vary depending on the type of salmonella bacteria that infects the peanut butter. Recent outbreaks have included contamination with salmonella Tennessee and salmonella Typhimurium. Because peanut butter has a high fat content, bacteria may survive for months in peanut butter jars after processing.
Gastrointestinal Side Effects
Gastrointestinal symptoms, including nausea, vomiting, diarrhea and abdominal pain occur most commonly with salmonella. Prolonged vomiting and diarrhea can lead to dehydration, one of the most serious side effects of salmonella poisoning, especially in small children, who dehydrate more easily than adults. The elderly and others with chronic diseases may also have a high risk of developing dehydration sufficiently serious to require hospitalization. Watch for signs such as sunken eyes, decreased urine output, dry mouth and tongue, decreased tear production and decreased skin turgor.
Sepsis
Fever, chills and lethargy often occur in salmonella poisoning or if you develop sepsis from the infection. Other signs of sepsis include a change in mental status, rapid heartbeat, confusion, rapid breathing or a skin rash. Sepsis occurs when the salmonella bacteria enter the bloodstream. It can then spread quickly to every organ, including the heart or brain. Death can occur from sepsis, especially in the very young, elderly or debilitated.
Typhoid
Most cases of typhoid due to salmonella Typhi result from travelers contracting it while overseas. Salmonella carriers are the only source of this bacteria, but food handlers could infect peanut butter during processing. The Typhi bacteria can also remain in your system for a long time, making you a chronic carrier, perhaps spreading the bacteria. About 25 percent of people with typhoid develop small, flat rose-colored spots on their trunks, according to the July 2003 issue of "Canadian Medical Association Journal." About 10 percent develop GI bleeding and intestinal perforation can occur. Typhoid encephalopathy --- inflammation of the brain --- can also develop.
Reiter's Syndrome
A small number infected with salmonella through peanut butter or other foods may develop a chronic condition called Reiter's syndrome, also called reactive arthritis. Symptoms include pain in the joints, eye irritation and painful urination. About 50 percent will develop symptoms that recur over a period of months to several years and may become chronic, according to MedlinePlus.
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