E. coli Outbreak Linked to McDonald’s Quarter Pounders
Outbreak Update
McDonald’s has temporarily removed ingredients from its menu in some locations after an E. coli outbreak has sickened dozens of people in multiple states. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has confirmed 49 cases, with 10 hospitalizations and one death.
Affected States
The outbreak has been reported in at least 10 U.S. states, with most cases in Colorado and Nebraska. Other affected states include Iowa, Kansas, Missouri, Montana, Oregon, Utah, Wisconsin, and Wyoming.
Symptoms
The CDC has outlined the most common symptoms of E. coli, which typically appear within three to four days of ingesting the bacteria. They include:
- Severe stomach crams
- Diarrhea
- Vomiting
- Fever above 102°F
- Signs of dehydration, such as dizziness when standing
- Fevers that last for more than three days that are not improving
- So much vomiting that you cannot keep liquids down
What You Can Do
If you experience E. coli symptoms after eating at McDonald’s, the CDC advises you to contact your healthcare provider. If you are experiencing severe symptoms, such as kidney failure, which requires hospitalization, seek medical attention immediately.
McDonald’s Response
In a statement, McDonald’s said, "Across the McDonald’s System, serving customers safely in every single restaurant, each and every day, is our top priority and something we’ll never compromise on. We take food safety extremely seriously and it’s the right thing to do. Impacted restaurants are receiving a stock recovery notice today and should reach out to their field supply chain manager or distribution center with any questions."
Withdrawal of Ingredients
McDonald’s has removed ingredients for its Quarter Pounder hamburgers, including fresh, slivered onions, and fresh beef patties, from its menu in some locations. The company has also paused the distribution of all slivered onions in the affected area. Additionally, it has temporarily removed Quarter Pounders from restaurants in Colorado, Kansas, Utah, and Wyoming, as well as portions of Idaho, Iowa, Missouri, Montana, Nebraska, Nevada, New Mexico, and Oklahoma.
Conclusion
McDonald’s is taking swift and decisive action to address the E. coli outbreak, removing potentially contaminated ingredients from its menu in some locations. The company is working closely with the CDC and its suppliers to resolve the issue. In the meantime, customers are advised to be vigilant and take action if they experience E. coli symptoms.
FAQs
Q: What is E. coli?
A: E. coli is a type of bacteria that can cause food poisoning.
Q: What are the symptoms of E. coli?
A: See the "Symptoms" section above.
Q: How many people have been affected by this outbreak?
A: 49 people, with 10 hospitalizations and one death.
Q: Which states have been affected by this outbreak?
A: Colorado, Nebraska, Iowa, Kansas, Missouri, Montana, Oregon, Utah, Wisconsin, and Wyoming.
Q: What is McDonald’s doing to address the outbreak?
A: McDonald’s is removing potentially contaminated ingredients from its menu in some locations and pausing the distribution of all slivered onions in the affected area.
