E. Coli from McDonald's foods claims one life, many affected
E. Coli outbreak linked to McDonald's: one dead, numerous illnesses reported
A recent E. coli outbreak has been connected to McDonald's Quarter Pounder hamburgers across ten U.S. states. One person has died, and 49 others have fallen ill, with 10 requiring hospitalization. Most cases were reported in Colorado, where 26 people got sick, according to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
The strain of E. coli involved, O157:H7, can cause serious illness. It was also responsible for a deadly outbreak in 1993 linked to undercooked hamburgers at another fast-food chain. Following the news, McDonald's shares dropped about 6%, and there are concerns the outbreak could affect U.S. cattle futures due to reduced demand for beef.
Investigation focus
All individuals affected by the outbreak reported eating at McDonald's before falling ill, with most mentioning the Quarter Pounder. While the specific ingredient causing the illness has not yet been identified, investigators are looking closely at fresh, slivered onions and beef patties.
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Cesar Piña, McDonald's North America Chief Supply Chain Officer, stated that initial findings suggest some illnesses may be linked to onions supplied by a single source serving three distribution centers. In response, McDonald's has removed the affected slivered onions and beef patties from restaurants in the impacted areas while the investigation continues.
The company has also temporarily taken the Quarter Pounder off the menu in states including Colorado, Kansas, Utah, and Wyoming. They are working with suppliers to replenish their stock soon.
E. coli symptoms include severe stomach cramps, diarrhea, and vomiting, usually starting three to four days after exposure, but symptoms can appear anywhere from one to ten days later. Previous E. coli outbreaks, like the one involving Chipotle in 2015, significantly affected sales and reputation. The current outbreak has also affected a few people in Nebraska, Utah, and Wyoming, with single cases reported in Kansas, Missouri, Oregon, Iowa, Wisconsin, and Montana.
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