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McDonald's E.Coli outbreak: What to know
A widespread E. coli outbreak has been linked to a McDonald’s product, according to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). LiveNOW's Carel Lajara spoke about the outbreak with Dr. Matthew Wise, Branch Chief of the CDC's Outbreak Response and Prevention Branch.
LOS ANGELES - At least 104 people have been affected by an E. coli outbreak linked to slivered onions served on McDonald’s Quarter Pounder hamburgers, with 34 hospitalized and one death reported, according to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). The outbreak, which has impacted 14 states, has led to a temporary recall and replacement of onions from certain suppliers in McDonald's restaurants.
What states are affected by the E. coli outbreak?
The outbreak has spread across 14 states, with the most cases reported in Colorado (30), followed by Montana (19), and Nebraska (13). Smaller clusters of cases have been identified in New Mexico, Missouri, Utah, Wyoming, and additional states across the Midwest and Pacific Northwest.
How did the outbreak start, and what caused it?
The CDC linked the E. coli outbreak to slivered onions served on Quarter Pounder hamburgers at McDonald's. Taylor Farms, a California-based produce supplier, has recalled onions potentially tied to the outbreak. FDA testing identified a strain of E. coli in one batch of onions, although it did not match the specific strain that sickened people. However, health officials believe the slivered onions remain the probable source.
How has McDonald's responded?
McDonald's removed Quarter Pounders with onions from menus in several affected states as a precautionary measure. Over the past week, the company secured an alternate onion supplier, and restaurants have resumed serving Quarter Pounders with slivered onions. McDonald's and FDA officials have stated that there is no ongoing food safety risk related to this outbreak in McDonald's locations.
What are the symptoms of E. coli infection?
Symptoms of E. coli infection generally appear within a day or two of consuming contaminated food. They may include:
- Fever
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea, sometimes bloody
- Signs of dehydration, such as increased thirst, dizziness, or low urine output
The CDC warns that E. coli poisoning can lead to serious kidney complications, particularly in young children under the age of 5, who may require immediate medical attention.