Public health offices are currently investigating the outbreak of E. coli O157:H7 infections in some US states. As per CDC reports, the outbreak has been linked to eating the McDonald's Quarter Pounder hamburger. Patients have reported eating at McDonald's before calling in sick.
E. coli is a group of bacteria typically found in the gut of humans and some animals. However, some strains of the bacteria are linked to gastrointestinal infections and can cause severe food poisoning. While a specific ingredient in the burgers has not been identified, the investigation is focused on the onions and beef.
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The link between McDonald's burgers and E. coli outbreak in US states
According to the CDC, 49 cases of E. coli have been reported, including ten hospitalizations and one death. The infections were reported between September 27 and October 10 in 10 states, including Iowa, Kansas, Colorado, Missouri, Nebraska, Mountori, Oregon, Utah, Wisconsin, and Wyoming. The U.S. Center for Disease Control in Colorado reported the most cases (26) and the death of an older person.
One of the ten people hospitalized developed hemolytic uremic syndrome, a severe condition that can cause kidney failure. CDC reported that the deceased from Colorado died after eating at McDonald's.
A preliminary investigation has suggested that the slivered onions are a source of contamination, per AP news. In a statement, McDonald's linked the slivered onions to a single supplier and revealed that they have temporarily withdrawn the McDonald's Quarter Pounder hamburgers from the shelves in the affected areas.
The statement read,
“We take food safety extremely seriously and it’s the right thing to do.”
The news comes in a challenging year for McDonald's as its global sales fell for the first time in four years. While the investigation is underway, the international fast-food chain is at risk for further losses and difficulties.
According to the CDC, symptoms of E. coli infection, such as diarrhea, high fever, vomiting, or signs of dehydration, typically begin 3-4 days after the bacteria enters the gut. They added that most people recover in 5-7 days without major intervention.
E. coli can cause severe infections and, in some cases, fatalities. As recommended by the CDC, anyone with potential symptoms should contact a healthcare professional immediately and reveal what they recently ate. As the E. coli infection investigations are underway, McDonald's has retrieved the burgers from the stores.
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