A deadly E. coli outbreak linked to onion slices in McDonald’s Quarter Pounder burgers has sickened 104 people in 14 states, federal health officials said in an update Wednesday.
At least 34 people were hospitalized and four developed hemolytic uremic syndrome (HUS), a serious condition that can lead to kidney failure. An 88-year-old man lived in grand junctionColorado, died as previously reported. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration said the illness began in late September and was last seen on October 21.
McDonald’s announced in late October that it would reinstate the Quarter Pounder without the julienned onions on the menu at hundreds of affected locations after tests ruled out the beef patty was the source of the infection.
The burger chain stopped serving burgers from its restaurants in several states after the war. A trend has been announced.
FDA and Colorado officials collected onion and environmental samples from McDonald’s stores and distribution centers. One recovered onion sample tested positive for E. coli, but it did not match the outbreak strain.
Onion supplier Taylor Farms recalled yellow onions due to the outbreak, and McDonald’s reintroduced shredded onions from another supplier.
“There appear to be no ongoing food safety concerns associated with this outbreak at McDonald’s restaurants,” the FDA said.
It usually takes three to four weeks to determine if a sick person is involved in an outbreak. Most people infected with toxin-producing E. coli bacteria experience severe stomach cramps, diarrhea, and vomiting. Most recover without treatment after 5 to 7 days.
If you develop serious symptoms after eating a McDonald’s Quarter Pounder, we recommend calling your health care provider. E. coli symptoms.
