E. coli Cases Rise to 104 in Outbreak Linked to McDonald’s Quarter Pounders

Update from Health Officials

The number of illnesses in the E. coli outbreak linked to McDonald’s Quarter Pounders has risen to 104, up from 90 at last count, health officials said in an update Wednesday. To date, 34 people have been hospitalized, four have developed serious kidney problems and one has died.

Background on the Outbreak

The outbreak was announced last month, though some cases date to September, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

CDC Investigation

The CDC and McDonald’s have both pointed to slivered onions served on Quarter Pounders as the likely source of the outbreak. McDonald’s said last month that Taylor Farms, a California-based food producer, supplied the onions to affected restaurants. Taylor Farms recalled its yellow onions on October 22.

No Longer a Food Safety Concern

Health officials said Wednesday that there no longer appears to be a food safety concern. In the last week, McDonald’s has resumed selling Quarter Pounders with slivered onions at the affected locations, relying on a different supplier for the onions.

Affected States and Cases

Fourteen states have been affected by the outbreak. Colorado has reported the most cases (30), followed by Montana (19) and Nebraska (13).

Testing and Results

The results of testing on samples of the recalled onions are pending. So far, one sample has come back positive for E. coli, but the strain didn’t match the one in the outbreak, called O157:H7.

Symptoms and Treatment

Most people infected with the E. coli strain recover without treatment. Milder symptoms often include stomach cramps, bloody diarrhea and vomiting. In more severe cases, people can develop high blood pressure, kidney disease, neurological problems or hemolytic uremic syndrome — a condition that can lead to kidney failure.

Legal Action

Several lawsuits have been filed against McDonald’s since the outbreak was announced, including a proposed class action.

McDonald’s Statement

McDonald’s said Wednesday in an online statement that “food safety is something we will never compromise on, and we remain committed to doing the right thing.”

Conclusion

The E. coli outbreak linked to McDonald’s Quarter Pounders has resulted in a significant number of illnesses, hospitalizations, and one fatality. While the outbreak appears to be under control, the incident serves as a reminder of the importance of food safety and the measures that must be taken to prevent such outbreaks from occurring in the future.

FAQs

Q: What is the cause of the E. coli outbreak?
A: The cause of the outbreak is believed to be slivered onions served on Quarter Pounders at affected McDonald’s locations.

Q: Which states are affected by the outbreak?
A: Fourteen states have been affected by the outbreak, with the most cases reported in Colorado.

Q: What are the symptoms of E. coli infection?
A: Symptoms of E. coli infection can include stomach cramps, bloody diarrhea, vomiting, and in severe cases, high blood pressure, kidney disease, neurological problems, and hemolytic uremic syndrome.

Q: What is the treatment for E. coli infection?
A: Most people infected with E. coli recover without treatment, but in severe cases, treatment may include antibiotics, fluids, and hospitalization.

Q: Have any lawsuits been filed against McDonald’s?
A: Yes, several lawsuits have been filed against McDonald’s since the outbreak was announced, including a proposed class action.