Quarter Pounders are off the menu at many McDonald’s in US as E. coli cases are investigated

An outbreak of E. coli food poisoning linked to McDonald’s Quarter Pounder hamburgers has resulted in at least 49 reported cases across 10 states, including one confirmed death in Colorado.

According to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), 10 individuals have been hospitalized, with one child suffering from severe kidney complications. The outbreak, which is spreading rapidly, occurred between September 27 and October 11, with Colorado reporting the highest number of cases at 27, followed by Nebraska with nine. All individuals interviewed in connection with the outbreak reported consuming McDonald’s food, specifically the Quarter Pounder.

Investigators are examining potential sources of contamination, focusing on slivered onions and beef. Preliminary findings from the FDA suggest that onions from a specific supplier may be linked to the illnesses. In response, McDonald’s has halted the distribution of these onions and temporarily removed the Quarter Pounder from menus in affected states, as well as in parts of Idaho, Nevada, New Mexico, and Oklahoma.

E. coli bacteria can cause severe illness, manifesting symptoms such as fever, stomach cramps, and bloody diarrhea. Health officials recommend that anyone experiencing these symptoms seek medical attention and inform their healthcare provider about their recent food consumption.

E. coli O157

The strain responsible for this outbreak, causes approximately 74,000 infections annually in the U.S., leading to over 2,000 hospitalizations and 61 deaths, particularly affecting young children and potentially causing severe complications like acute kidney failure.