Deadly E. Coli Outbreak Linked to McDonald's Quarter Pounders Sickens 104, Claims One Life

A recent E. coli outbreak linked to slivered onions used in McDonald's Quarter Pounder burgers has affected 104 individuals across 14 states, according to federal health officials. The outbreak, which started at the end of September, has led to 34 hospitalizations, with four cases developing into the severe condtion known as hemolytic uremic syndrome (HUS), which can result in kidney failure. Tragically, an 88-year-old man from Grand Junction, Colorado, has died due to complications from the disease. These alarming developments were detailed in an update issued on Wednesday by relevant health authorities.

Impact on McDonald's Menu

In response to the outbreak, McDonald's took swift action by pulling the potentially contaminated Quarter Pounders from multiple restaurants in various states. However, by late October, the fast-food chain announced the return of the Quarter Pounders — sans slivered onions — to the menus of affected locations what recent testing ruled out beef patties as the source of the E. coli outbreak. This development came after federal and state agencies undertook comprehensive collection of onion and environmental samples from McDonald's establishments and distribution centers, leading to the identification of one sample of recalled onions testing positive for E. coli, albeit not matching the outbreak strain. In light of these findings, onion supplier Taylor Farms instituted a recall of yellow onions, while McDonald's made the decision to introduce slivered onions from an alternative supplier.

Health Advisory

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has since affirmed that there is no ongoing food safety concern related to the outbreak at McDonald's restaurants. It is worth noting that the determination of whether a sick person is part of an outbreak typically takes three to four weeks. Symptoms associated with toxin-producing E. coli infections often include severe stomach cramps, diarrhea, and vomiting, although most individuals tend to recover without medical intervention within five to seven days. In light of this outbreak, health authorities are advising individuals who have consumed a McDonald's Quarter Pounder and are experiencing severe E. coli symptoms to promptly contact their health care provider.