For immediate release: October 9, 2007 (07-175)

Contacts:
Dave Gifford, Food Safety Program 360-236-3074
Donn Moyer, Communications Office 360-236-4076

Frozen pot pies may be linked to three illnesses in Washington
Federal health alert issued: more than 100 people sickened nationwide

OLYMPIA ¾ Three cases of salmonellosis in Washington may be linked to frozen pot pies, part of a national outbreak that has sickened more than 100 people in several states.

The Washington cases are potentially linked to products made by ConAgra, most of which were sold under the Banquet brand name.

The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) has issued a health alert advising consumers not to eat ConAgra frozen pot pies with "P9" in the identification code printed on the box. USDA says the pot pies are sold under Banquet and store-brand names, each containing the "P9" identifier.

Salmonellosis is a common infection caused by Salmonella bacteria. There are 600 to 800 cases reported in Washington each year. The three Washington cases were in Snohomish, Spokane, and Yakima Counties. None were hospitalized and all three have recovered.

"Anyone who has these frozen pot pies with that identification code should not eat them," said Dave Gifford from the Department of Health Food Safety Program.

Symptoms of salmonellosis may include severe diarrhea, bloody diarrhea, fever, chills, abdominal discomfort, and occasionally vomiting. The symptoms generally appear one to three days after exposure. Serious bloodstream infections can occur, particularly in the very young or elderly. If you show symptoms contact your health care provider.

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