Nationwide salmonella outbreak linked to onions

A salmonella outbreak is currently affecting 22 states including Wyoming and is believed to be associated with onions.

The specific products with which the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) have linked the outbreak are from the Gills Onions brand and have been recalled.

They include some lots of diced yellow onions, both three-pound bags and 8 oz cups; diced celery and onion mirepoix (10 oz); and diced red onions (8 oz cups).

The affected produce has use-by dates between August 8 and 28, 2023.

While this date is long passed, the CDC notes that some people may have frozen them to use later.

The onions were sold in some stores, but were also sent to restaurants and institutions across the nation.

If you have any of these products in your freezer or fridge, the CDC advises throwing them away or returning them where you bought them.

Of the 73 people currently known to have been affected by this salmonella outbreak, one is a Wyoming resident.

The outbreak has also impacted 21 other states, including the surrounding area. This includes one person in Colorado, two in Montana, one in Idaho and 17 in Utah.

No deaths have so far been reported, but 15 of the patients have been hospitalized.

If you notice severe symptoms such as diarrhea and a fever above 102 degrees F; diarrhea for more than three days; blood diarrhea; vomiting to the point you cannot keep liquids down; or signs of dehydration, the CDC advises that you call your healthcare provider.

Businesses are asked not to sell or serve recalled Gills Onions products or foods made with them and to wash and sanitize surfaces and items that may have come into contact with these products.

Most people recover without treatment from salmonella after four days to a week. Symptoms usually begin between six hours and six days after swallowing the bacteria.

Symptoms include diarrhea, fever and stomach cramps.

The outbreak is currently under investigation.