An E coli outbreak associated with McDonald’s Quarter Pounder hamburgers has emerged as a significant public health concern, impacting at least 49 individuals across ten states. Federal health officials have confirmed that the outbreak has resulted in one death and ten hospitalizations, including a child facing severe kidney complications.
The centers for disease control and prevention (CDC) is actively investigating the situation, which has sparked concerns regarding food safety and the fast-food giant’s menu offerings.
The infections have been traced back to a period between September 27 and October 11, with the majority of cases reported in Colorado, which has logged the highest number of infections.
As officials work to identify the source of the contamination, initial findings suggest that slivered onions and hamburger patties may be to blame. McDonald’s has responded to the outbreak by removing the implicated items from menus in affected states and halting distribution of certain ingredients.
This outbreak comes at a challenging time for McDonald’s, which has recently experienced declines in global same-store sales. As the fast-food chain grapples with the impact of inflation on consumer behavior, this health crisis may further strain its reputation and financial performance. The investigation is ongoing, with health officials urging the public to be vigilant about the symptoms of E coli infection.
Here’s what you need to know:
- Infections were reported in Colorado, Iowa, Kansas, Missouri, Montana, Nebraska, Oregon, Utah, Wisconsin, and Wyoming.
- At least 49 individuals were affected, with 27 cases in Colorado and 9 in Nebraska.
- One death was reported in Colorado; 10 hospitalizations, including a child with severe kidney complications.
- All interviewed individuals reported consuming food from McDonald’s, primarily Quarter Pounders.
- Investigators are examining slivered onions and beef patties as potential sources of contamination.
- Preliminary findings suggest slivered onions from a single supplier may be linked to some illnesses.
- McDonald’s has removed Quarter Pounder hamburgers and slivered onions from menus in affected states and parts of Idaho, Nevada, New Mexico, and Oklahoma.
- The company has temporarily halted the distribution of slivered onions sourced from the implicated supplier and emphasized its commitment to food safety.
- The implicated strain, E coli O157:H7, causes approximately 74,000 infections annually in the US, leading to severe symptoms including fever, stomach cramps, and bloody diarrhoea.
- Young children are particularly vulnerable and can experience severe complications like acute kidney failure.
- McDonald’s has faced a decline in global same-store sales for the first time in nearly four years, prompting the introduction of a $5 meal deal that does not include the Quarter Pounder.
- Following the CDC’s announcement, company shares dropped 9 per cent in after-hours trading.
