An outbreak of E. coli linked to McDonald’s Quarter Pounder burgers has caused one death and several hospitalizations, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
McDonald’s has removed Quarter Pounders from some restaurants as a safety measure.
The CDC reported that the outbreak has affected people in 10 different states. One person in Colorado has died from the infection.
Health authorities are currently investigating 49 cases connected to the burgers.
In its latest update, the CDC advised anyone who ate a Quarter Pounder and is experiencing severe symptoms to contact a doctor.
Symptoms of E. coli include fever, diarrhea, vomiting, and dehydration. In some severe cases, like a child who was hospitalized, kidney disease known as hemolytic uremic syndrome (HUS) can develop.
Most of the cases have been found in Colorado, where nine cases have been reported, while Nebraska has also seen a number of infections.
The outbreak has also affected residents in Iowa, Kansas, Missouri, Montana, Oregon, Utah, Wisconsin, and Wyoming.
The CDC emphasized that the investigation is moving quickly. “Most people who are sick have reported eating Quarter Pounders, and we are working to identify which ingredients are contaminated,” they said in a statement.
McDonald’s has already removed ingredients used in the Quarter Pounder burger from many of its restaurants in the affected states.
According to McDonald’s, their initial findings suggest that onions used in the Quarter Pounders could be the cause.
These onions came from one supplier that serves three of McDonald’s distribution centers.
McDonald’s has clarified that diced onions used in other burgers, like the Big Mac and Cheeseburger, are not involved in the outbreak.
“All other menu items, including beef burgers like the Cheeseburger, Hamburger, Big Mac, McDouble, and Double Cheeseburger, are still available and safe to eat,” McDonald’s reassured customers in their statement.
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The outbreak was first identified on September 27, when an unusual spike in E. coli cases was noticed in Colorado. The CDC began its investigation on October 15.
Cesar Piña, McDonald’s North America supply chain officer, stated, “Our customers’ safety is always our top priority.
We will continue to work with the CDC and provide updates as we bring back our full menu.”
Eliot Pierce is a dedicated writer for ChiefsFocus.com, covering local crime and finance news. With a keen eye for detail and a passion for storytelling, Eliot aims to provide his readers with clear and insightful analysis, helping them navigate the complexities of their financial lives while staying informed about important local events. His commitment to delivering accurate and engaging content makes him a valuable resource for the community.