A multistate outbreak of E. coli linked to McDonald’s Quarter Pounder hamburgers has resulted in 49 reported illnesses, including one death and 10 hospitalizations, federal health officials said on Tuesday. The outbreak, which has affected 10 states, is under investigation by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) alongside the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and the Department of Agriculture (USDA).
While no cases have yet to be reported in New Jersey, you might want to try a different sandwich during your next visit.
The outbreak, traced back to infections occurring between Sept. 27 and Oct. 11, has prompted McDonald’s to stop using slivered onions and Quarter Pounder beef patties in several states while authorities investigate. The CDC confirmed that McDonald’s has removed these items in 13 states, including Colorado, Kansas, Utah, Wyoming, and parts of Idaho and Iowa. There have been no reported cases in New Jersey, and the state is not currently on the list of affected or monitored regions.
The highest number of cases was reported in Colorado, which saw 26 infections and one death, according to the CDC. Nebraska followed with nine cases, while additional infections occurred in Iowa, Kansas, Missouri, Montana, Utah, Wisconsin, and Wyoming. One child is reportedly suffering from severe kidney complications linked to the outbreak.
Officials have not yet identified a specific ingredient causing the illness but are focusing their investigation on fresh slivered onions and the hamburger patties served in the Quarter Pounder.
“We are working closely with the CDC and other agencies to ensure the safety of our customers,” McDonald’s said in a statement.
Preliminary findings from the FDA point to onions as a potential source, while the USDA is separately investigating the beef patties. All those who fell ill reported eating at McDonald’s before their symptoms began, with the majority mentioning the Quarter Pounder as the common food item.
Federal and state authorities continue to monitor the situation as the investigation unfolds. Public health officials urge individuals experiencing symptoms of E. coli infection, such as severe stomach cramps, diarrhea, and vomiting, to seek medical attention.
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