The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has issued an urgent food safety alert following a deadly multistate E. coli outbreak tied to McDonald’s Quarter Pounders. As of now, 49 cases of illness have been reported across 10 states, with one fatality—a senior citizen. Of the affected individuals, ten have been hospitalized, and a young child has developed hemolytic uremic syndrome, a severe and life-threatening complication of E. coli infections. Most of the reported cases are from Colorado and Nebraska.
Source of Contamination: McDonald’s Quarter Pounders
The CDC has identified McDonald’s Quarter Pounder sandwiches as the common factor among those who fell ill. In a fast-evolving investigation, slivered onions have emerged as the likely source of contamination, based on findings reviewed by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). McDonald’s has responded by removing both the slivered onions and Quarter Pounder beef patties from multiple states while the investigation continues.
McDonald’s Response to the E. Coli Outbreak
In a statement, McDonald’s confirmed that the contaminated onions were traced to a single supplier servicing three distribution centers. As a precaution, the fast-food giant has temporarily halted the use of slivered onions and quarter-pound patties in affected states, including Colorado, Kansas, Utah, Wyoming, and parts of Idaho, Iowa, Missouri, Montana, Nebraska, Nevada, New Mexico, and Oklahoma. McDonald’s reassured customers that other popular items, such as the Big Mac, Cheeseburger, and McDouble, remain unaffected and available.
The company emphasized that their top priority is “serving customers safely in every restaurant, every day.” They are working with suppliers to restock Quarter Pounders in the coming weeks, though the timeline may vary by region. In the meantime, the Quarter Pounder may be unavailable in select areas as the investigation continues.
What to Watch for: E. Coli Symptoms
People infected with E. coli often experience severe stomach cramps, diarrhea, vomiting, and fever. Symptoms usually appear within three to four days of consuming contaminated food. While most individuals recover within a week without treatment, some, particularly young children and older adults, can develop life-threatening complications, such as kidney failure.
If you or a loved one experience any symptoms after eating a McDonald’s Quarter Pounder, seek medical attention immediately. Be sure to inform your healthcare provider about what you ate, as early diagnosis can be crucial for treatment.
McDonald’s Stock Hit by Outbreak
News of the outbreak has shaken investor confidence, with McDonald’s stock seeing a sharp decline in after-hours trading. The company continues to work closely with the CDC and FDA to address the outbreak and prevent further contamination.
McDonald’s E. Coli Outbreak: How to Stay Informed
As the 2024 McDonald’s E. coli outbreak unfolds, it’s essential to stay updated on developments. The CDC urges customers in affected states to avoid consuming Quarter Pounders until the investigation concludes. Follow McDonald’s official channels for updates on the availability of the Quarter Pounder and other menu items.
Stay Safe: If you’ve consumed a McDonald’s Quarter Pounder recently and are experiencing symptoms, seek immediate medical care and report your illness to your local health department.