E. coli outbreak reported in locally sold walnuts

An outbreak of E. coli has been reported in a brand of organic walnuts known to be sold in stores in this area.

According to the Centers for Disease Control (CDC), 12 people have so far been infected, seven of whom were hospitalized and two developed hemolytic uremic syndrome, a rare disease that affects the kidneys and blood clotting functions and can lead to kidney failure.

The walnuts in question are bulk organic walnuts from Gibson Farms, Inc. with expiration dates between May 21 and June 7, 2025.

They are known to have been sold within Wyoming in Newcastle, Riverton and Sheridan, as well as nearby in Spearfish, Sturgis and Rapid City.

The CDC recommends asking the store where you purchased walnuts if any recalled items were sold there. Some stores may repackage bulk walnut halves and pieces into bags or plastic clamshells.

The CDC recommends checking your kitchen stores for walnuts to see if they may have been part of the FDA recall and washing any items or surfaces that may have touched the walnuts.

If you develop symptoms of E. coli, contact your healthcare provider. Symptoms generally begin within three or four days from swallowing the bacteria and can include stomach cramps, diarrhea (often bloody) and vomiting.

Most people recover without treatment after five to seven days, but some may develop serious kidney problems.