Chicago Woman Joins Class-Action Lawsuit Against McDonald’s Following E. Coli Outbreak
E. Coli Outbreak Linked to Quarter Pounders
A Chicago woman has joined a class-action lawsuit against McDonald’s following an E. coli outbreak tied to its Quarter Pounder burgers. According to the lawsuit, the woman claimed she experienced E. coli symptoms after eating a Quarter Pounder on October 17.
The suit also includes a Florida plaintiff who reported similar symptoms shortly after eating a Quarter Pounder on October 1. Following these and other reported illnesses, McDonald’s launched an investigation on October 22, specifically looking into the possibility that Quarter Pounders may have been the source of potential contamination.
Attorney’s Concerns
"Our clients deserve to know that the food they purchase is safe and free from contaminants like E. coli," said Roy T. Willey IV of Poulin Willey Anastopoulo LLC, the plaintiffs’ attorney. "We believe that McDonald’s has an obligation to reimburse those who bought these recalled products, as well as to take responsibility for the health risks this contamination posed to its customers."
The Outbreak: A Growing Concern
So far, the outbreak has affected 90 individuals across 13 states, resulting in 27 hospitalizations, two cases of hemolytic uremic syndrome – a serious condition that can lead to kidney failure – and one death. The FDA and CDC have identified slivered onions, previously served on Quarter Pounders, as the likely source of the E. coli contamination.
McDonald’s Response
In response to the outbreak, McDonald’s removed these onions from affected locations and suspended supply from Taylor Farms’ Colorado facility, where the onions originated. Symptoms of an E. coli infection typically appear within days of exposure and include severe stomach cramps, diarrhea, fever, and nausea. Some cases can result in severe complications, including life-threatening conditions like hemolytic uremic syndrome, which can lead to chronic health issues such as kidney disease and high blood pressure.
What to Know About the E. Coli Outbreak
The outbreak is expanding to more states, and cases are linked to slivered onions. The FDA and CDC have identified slivered onions as the likely source of the E. coli contamination.
Conclusion
The outbreak has led to a class-action lawsuit against McDonald’s, with the company facing demands for compensatory, statutory, and punitive damages, as well as measurable costs for ongoing medical monitoring.
Frequently Asked Questions
- What is the source of the E. coli outbreak?
Slivered onions, previously served on Quarter Pounders, are the likely source of the E. coli contamination. - How many individuals are affected?
The outbreak has affected 90 individuals across 13 states. - What are the symptoms of an E. coli infection?
Symptoms typically appear within days of exposure and include severe stomach cramps, diarrhea, fever, and nausea. - How can I stay safe from E. coli?
Make sure to handle and cook food safely, and wash your hands frequently.
