Health officials are currently investigating an alarming E. coli outbreak associated with McDonald’s Quarter Pounders across several states, as reported by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) on Tuesday.
While the exact ingredient responsible for the illnesses remains undetermined, authorities are scrutinizing slivered onions and quarter-pound beef patties, both key components of the popular burger. So far, at least 49 individuals across 10 states have fallen ill, with one unfortunate fatality reported in Colorado.
Among the hospitalized cases, one child has developed hemolytic uremic syndrome, a serious kidney condition linked to E. coli infections. In response to the outbreak, McDonald’s has proactively ceased using the implicated slivered onions and quarter-pound beef patties in several affected states.
According to McDonald’s, initial investigations suggest that a specific supplier for the slivered onions may be at the center of the outbreak, impacting three distribution centers. The fast-food giant is fully cooperating with public health officials, pledging to provide timely updates as they work to restore their full menu.
“This is a fast-moving outbreak,” stated Matt Wise, chief of the CDC’s Outbreak Response and Prevention Branch. The CDC was alerted to the unusual rise in E. coli cases on October 10, with their investigation commencing on October 15.
Although McDonald’s has pulled Quarter Pounders from restaurants in the impacted states, the CDC warns that the public should remain vigilant as more cases may emerge. The typical symptoms of an E. coli infection include high fever, severe stomach cramps, diarrhea, and vomiting.
Of the individuals who became ill, 16 reported dining at McDonald’s prior to their symptoms, with 12 specifically mentioning the Quarter Pounder. The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) is also on high alert, working swiftly to determine whether the affected slivered onions were distributed to other businesses. It is important to note that diced onions used in other McDonald’s menu items are not linked to this outbreak.
The CDC continues to collaborate with the Agriculture Department and state health officials as the investigation unfolds. Most cases have been reported in Colorado, followed by Nebraska and several other states including Iowa, Kansas, and Missouri.
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