National Salmonella Outbreak Linked to Onions
Contaminated onions have caused 808 confirmed Salmonella Oranienburg outbreak cases, including 157 hospitalizations. The FDA identified ProSource Products, LLC and Keeler Family Farms as suppliers of whole, fresh onions potentially contaminated with Salmonella. The suppliers imported the onions from Chihuahua, Mexico.
The suppliers sold the contaminated onions to retail stores, grocery stores, restaurants, food service locations, and wholesalers throughout the US. The FDA continues its investigation into the source of contamination. Further, the FDA investigation seeks to identify other products or firms possibly linked to the outbreak. The process of data collection and traceback continues.
During the 10 day period covering October 18 through October 28 alone, the CDC identified an additional 156 confirmed Salmonella outbreak cases linked to onions. Those cases originated in 37 different states, in addition to Puerto Rico. Given that it typically takes three to four weeks after an illness to determine if a case is part of an outbreak, more recent cases are likely not included in the current case count. Further, many people recover without medical care and therefore without laboratory testing for Salmonella. This means the true number of outbreak cases likely numbers much higher than the current case count.
This outbreak encompasses wide-ranging demographics. Outbreak cases range from less than a year old to 101 years old, with a median age of 37. Females comprise more than half of confirmed cases. Confirmed cases began on dates ranging from May 31 to October 13, 2021.
About Salmonella Infection
Common symptoms resulting from infection with Salmonella bacteria include diarrhea (which may be bloody), stomach cramps, and fever, which begin anywhere from six hours to six days after ingestion. On average, symptoms last four to seven days. Additional common symptoms include nausea, vomiting, and headaches.
People acquire Salmonella by eating food or drinking water contaminated with the bacteria, or touching infected animals and failing to wash their hands afterwards. Outbreaks of Salmonella have been tied to contaminated vegetables, such as bean sprouts, as well as to contaminated poultry, beef, and eggs.
The CDC recommends contacting a doctor in certain situations. First, diarrhea and a fever higher than 102 degrees requires medical attention. You should also seek medical attention for diarrhea lasting more than 3 days that is not improving. Bloody stools also require prompt medical attention. This is also true in the case of continued vomiting that keeps you from keeping liquids down. Finally, you should call your doctor if you have signs of dehydration. These include making very little urine (peeing infrequently), dry mouth and throat, and dizziness when standing up.