A severe E. coli outbreak linked to McDonald’s Quarter Pounder burgers has left one person dead and at least 10 hospitalized in the United States. The outbreak began in late September and spread to 10 states, with most of the 49 reported cases in Colorado (27) and Nebraska (9), according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
“10 people are hospitalized. One elderly Colorado citizen has died. Additionally, one child is hospitalized with complications from hemolytic uremic syndrome (HUS),” health officials said in an official statement Tuesday. “There is,” he announced.
“All those interviewed reported eating at McDonald’s before the onset of their illness, and specifically mentioned eating a Quarter Pounder hamburger,” the report said.
The CDC also said the “true number” of people sick is likely “much higher” than the number being reported because many people recover without seeking medical care and are not tested for E. coli. said.
According to the report, the specific ingredients associated with the disease have not yet been identified, but researchers are focusing on two ingredients in particular: fresh julienned onions and fresh beef patties.
McDonald’s response
McDonald’s said initial results of the investigation indicate some of the illnesses may be linked to shredded onions used in the Quarter Pounder and sourced from a single supplier serving three distribution centers. He said it shows that there is.
“As a result, in accordance with our safety protocols, all local restaurants have been instructed to remove this product from their supply and we have suspended the distribution of all onion slices in the affected area,” the fast food chain said. said in a statement. .
“Out of an abundance of caution, we are also temporarily removing Quarter Pounders from restaurants in the affected areas,” the company said.
Joe Erlinger, president of McDonald’s U.S., also released a video message saying, “Food safety is extremely important to me and everyone at McDonald’s.”
All other menu items will be available, including cheeseburgers, hamburgers, Big Macs, Mac doubles, and other beef products such as double cheeseburgers.
E. coli symptoms
Most people infected with E. coli experience severe stomach cramps, diarrhea (often bloody), and vomiting.
Symptoms usually begin three to four days after swallowing the bacteria, and most people recover without treatment after five to seven days, according to the CDC.
Some people develop serious kidney problems (hemolytic uremic syndrome) that may require hospitalization.
