Three people have died, and dozens have fallen sick in an outbreak of E.coli bacteria that the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has linked to McDonald’s Quarter Pounder burgers. The CDC also reported that this outbreak has infected at least 49 people across 10 states; one death and 10 people had to be hospitalized. This seems to have been caused by slivered onions and Quarter Pounder beef patties; however, the CDC and the FDA have yet to isolate the specific cause.
The Scale of the Outbreak
CALIFORNIA The E.coli breakout of food originated on September 27, 2024, and has since affected over ten states, although the effects are most prevalent in Colorado and Nebraska. The CDC noted that patients with the abovementioned bacteria suffered from bad stomach pain, frequent diarrhea, fever, and vomiting. All have been associated with burgers, especially the Quarter Pounder burgers from the McDonalds food industry, after which the company withdrew Quarter Pounder burgers from several of its markets.
The affected states include:
- Colorado
- Nebraska
- Wyoming
- Kansas
- Utah
- Missouri
- Montana
- Idaho
- Nevada
- New Mexico
For a complete list of symptoms and what to do if you think you might be affected, visit the CDC’s E. coli resource page.
McDonald’s Response and Safety Measures
McDonald’s has responded swiftly by removing Quarter Pounder beef patties and slivered onions from all locations within the affected states. The organization works with its suppliers and the CDC to avoid compromising consumer safety.
In a statement, McDonald’s emphasized their commitment to food safety:
“Serving customers safely in every single restaurant, each and every day, is our top priority.”
They have quieted customers about other products, such as Macs and hamburgers, being safe to take from the consumption zone. For more details, visit the FDA’s current investigation on the E. coli outbreak.
Health Risks and Preventative Measures
This strain of E. coli can be very toxic, especially to the elderly and young children. In severe cases, it can cause hemolytic uremic syndrome (HUS); this is, a severe kidney complication. One child has already developed HUS, and others remain hospitalized.
To minimize your risk, the CDC recommends:
- This is mainly from locations where your food could be contaminated or belong to the McDonald’s group.
- Sanitize your hands when preparing a meal or when eating out in restaurants.
- If something is unusual about overlay Quarter Pounder or related products, consult your doctor immediately.
For further advice on preventing foodborne illness, the CDC provides guidelines here.
Previous E. Coli Outbreaks at McDonald’s
Unfortunately for McDonald’s, this is not the first time the fast food chain has had an experience of E. coli involvement. A 2022 outbreak connected to McDonald’s McNuggets sickened at least seven children in Alabama. Some of the violations that health inspectors noted at the time include inadequate food handling procedures.
Stock Market Impact
When it was reported that it had reached this region, the share price of McDonald’s on the New York Stock Exchange fell by almost 9% due to doubts from investors regarding McDonald’s food cleanliness. McDonald’s has yet to issue an official comment regarding the financial fallout.
For ongoing updates on this outbreak and its effects on the stock market, check out the latest from CNBC’s market coverage.
Conclusion
When reporting the investigation findings, consumers are encouraged to keep informed about the outbreak and act appropriately. The CDC, FDA, and McDonald’s are collaborating to prevent the spread of the disease and protect customers across the country from foodborne illnesses.
If you or someone you know has consumed a Quarter Pounder in the affected states and is showing symptoms, seek medical help immediately. The CDC’s official outbreak page will provide the latest updates on this rapidly evolving situation.
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