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KOIN Alert

Posted on: 02/06/2009

Possible Contaminated Peanut Butter in Meals Being Distributed by FEMA

The meals distributed by the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) may contain packets of peanut butter that could possibly be contaminated with salmonella related to the recent salmonella outbreaks. As a precautionary measure, Kentucky Emergency Management officials are securing alternative sources of food for Kentucky residents in need because of last week’s ice storm. Kentucky National Guard and Emergency Management officials are contracting with a private food vendor to secure hundreds of thousands of pre-prepared meals. The measures being taken are in response to a precautionary notice distributed last night from FEMA advising residents not to consume peanut butter contained in some prepared meals.

FEMA officials last night said some meal kits may contain packets of peanut butter that are part of the precautionary national recall underway in accordance with the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA). It was not clear this morning how many of the meal kits had been distributed in Kentucky. Storm victims in Arkansas were given the same notice.

In the interest of public safety, the Kentucky Department for Public Health, as a precautionary measure, is advising that all Meals Ready to Eat (MREs) that contain peanut butter should have the peanut butter product removed before distribution. Anyone who has received a meal containing peanut butter should dispose of the peanut butter immediately. If individuals feel ill, as always, they should consult a doctor or health care professional.

Dangers of Kerosene Heater Use

The Kentucky Department for Public Health (DPH) is advising Kentuckians of the possible dangers from kerosene heater use as residents seek alternative heat sources to stay warm following last week’s devastating winter ice storm. Officials from DPH advise residents to follow precautionary guidelines from the National Center for Environmental Health for safe kerosene heater use:

• Follow manufacturer’s instructions for specific model.
• Operate heater in a well-vented area.
• Use only 1-K grade kerosene fuel.
• Never refuel the heater inside the home.
• Place kerosene heaters several feet away from all furniture, curtains, paper, clothes, bedding and other combustible materials.
• Keep infants, small children and pets away from heaters to avoid serious burns.
• Seek immediate medical attention if you suspect carbon monoxide poisoning and are experiencing symptoms of carbon monoxide poisoning.
• Early symptoms include headache, nausea, vomiting and fatigue. Carbon monoxide poisoning is treatable.
• If you are experiencing symptoms of carbon monoxide poisoning, contact the Poison Control hotline at (800) 222-1222.

Thanks and continue to stay safe,

Barbara Fox
Public Information Officer, KOIN Coordinator
Cabinet for Health and Family Services
Division of Communications
275 East Main Street, 4C-A
Frankfort, KY 40621
(502) 564-6786 Ext. 4411
(502) 564-0274 (fax)
Barbaraj.fox@ky.gov

Amateur Radio Operator KI4-UFB

For more information about the Kentucky Outreach and Information Network (KOIN), visit http://chfs.ky.gov/dph/epi/preparedness/KOIN.htm

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