E.Coli Outbreak Linked to McDonald’s Quarter Pounder Hamburgers Spawns Lawsuit
Customer Takes Action After Suffering Illness
A 33-year-old woman, Clarissa DeBock, is taking legal action against McDonald’s after falling ill with E.Coli symptoms, allegedly linked to a Quarter Pounder hamburger she consumed at a Golden Arches restaurant in North Platte, Nebraska.
The Outbreak
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the E.Coli outbreak has affected 75 people across 13 states, resulting in 22 hospitalizations and one death. The outbreak is associated with the raw onions used in some of the company’s quarter pounders from one of their suppliers, Taylor Farms.
DeBock’s Experience
DeBock reportedly ate one of the affected burgers and initially did not notice anything unusual. However, five days later, she began experiencing abdominal cramps, diarrhea, and nausea, which worsened to the point where she sought hospitalization. Tests revealed that she was infected with E.Coli strain O157:H7, the same strain linked to the outbreak.
"I could just tell that something was off by the cramps, just because they were so bad," she said. "You get cramps with the flu and stuff, but it was different."
Lawsuit
DeBock filed a lawsuit against McDonald’s, seeking compensation for lost wages, medical bills, and physical and emotional suffering. She is being represented by food safety law firm Ron Simon & Associates, who claim that 15 people are affected by the outbreak, although only two have filed suit so far.
Reactions from McDonald’s and Other Companies
In response to the outbreak, several companies, including McDonald’s, Taco Bell, KFC, and Pizza Hut, have removed onions from their menus as a precautionary measure. McDonald’s President Joe Erlinger assured the public that the company prioritizes food safety, stating, "Food safety is our top priority at McDonald’s. What’s important today is that we’ve taken the action to protect the American public and promote public health."
Conclusion
The E.Coli outbreak linked to McDonald’s Quarter Pounder hamburgers has had devastating consequences for many, including DeBock, who is now seeking justice. The incident highlights the importance of food safety and the need for companies to prioritize public health.
FAQs
Q: How many people have been affected by the E.Coli outbreak?
A: According to the CDC, 75 people across 13 states have been affected.
Q: Which companies have removed onions from their menus?
A: McDonald’s, Taco Bell, KFC, and Pizza Hut have removed onions from their menus.
Q: Can I still eat at McDonald’s?
A: According to McDonald’s President Joe Erlinger, it is still safe to eat at the company’s restaurants, as they have taken actions to protect public health.
Q: Who is representing the plaintiffs in the lawsuit?
A: The food safety law firm Ron Simon & Associates is representing the affected individuals, including DeBock and another plaintiff.
