In a concerning development, at least 104 people across 14 states in the United States have fallen ill due to an E. coli outbreak linked to slivered onions served on McDonald’s Quarter Pounder hamburgers, according to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
The outbreak has led to 34 hospitalizations, with four individuals developing a serious kidney complication known as hemolytic uremic syndrome. Tragically, one death has been reported in Colorado.
The cases span a wide geographic area, highlighting the widespread impact of the outbreak. Colorado reported the highest number with 30 cases, followed by Montana with 19, Nebraska with 13, and New Mexico with 10. Other affected states include Missouri, Utah, Wyoming, Kansas, Michigan, Iowa, North Carolina, Oregon, Washington, and Wisconsin.
Illnesses were reported between September 12 and October 21. Notably, at least seven people who became ill had consumed McDonald’s food while traveling, suggesting the potential for broader exposure.
The CDC identified slivered onions used in the Quarter Pounders as the likely source of the contamination. Taylor Farms, a California-based produce supplier, has recalled the onions potentially linked to the outbreak. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) detected a strain of E. coli that produces a dangerous toxin in one sample of the onions, though it did not match the specific strain causing the illnesses.
In response to the outbreak, McDonald’s removed Quarter Pounders from menus in several states during the early stages of the investigation. The implicated onions are now past their shelf life and are no longer in circulation. CDC officials have indicated that the current risk to the public is low.
E. coli infections are a significant public health concern in the United States, with this particular strain causing approximately 74,000 illnesses annually. These infections lead to more than 2,000 hospitalizations and 61 deaths each year, according to the CDC.
Symptoms of E. coli infection typically appear within one to two days after consuming contaminated food. They include fever, vomiting, diarrhea (which may be bloody), and signs of dehydration such as decreased urination, increased thirst, and dizziness. Children under five years of age are especially vulnerable and may develop serious kidney complications. Prompt medical attention is crucial for young children exhibiting symptoms of E. coli poisoning.
This outbreak underscores the importance of food safety protocols in preventing foodborne illnesses. Health officials continue to monitor the situation and investigate the source of the contamination to prevent future outbreaks.
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E. coli cases reach 104 in McDonald's outbreak tied to slivered onions
cgtn.com
