E. Coli In Your McDonalds
By Olirena Tuamoheloa , October 23rd 2024
An E. coli outbreak connected to McDonald’s Quarter Pounder burgers has spread to 10 states, with Utah being one of the affected regions, according to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). Of the 49 cases reported, four have been identified in Utah, while Colorado has recorded one death and several hospitalizations. Across the outbreak, 10 people have been hospitalized.
The CDC reports that most individuals who fell ill had eaten Quarter Pounders, leading McDonald’s to temporarily remove the burger from its menu as authorities investigate the source of contamination. Colorado has been the hardest-hit state with 26 cases, followed by Nebraska with nine. Other states, including Wisconsin, Iowa, Missouri, Kansas, Wyoming, Montana, and Oregon, have reported fewer cases.
The likely source of the outbreak is either the fresh slivered onions or the beef patties used in the Quarter Pounders. As a precaution, McDonald’s has ceased using these ingredients in Utah, according to the state’s Department of Health and Human Services.
Utah officials were first alerted to a rise in E. coli cases after neighboring states, such as Colorado and Nebraska, also saw a surge. Delaney Moore, an epidemiologist with Utah’s Department of Health and Human Services, explained that lab data indicated a common source for the infections. “Normally, this time of year, we see a few E. coli cases each week, but the recent spike led us to investigate further,” Moore said.
Symptoms of E. coli infection include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and in severe cases, bloody diarrhea. Most cases last up to a week, though those with weakened immune systems may face more severe complications. Moore noted that there is often a delay between consumption of a contaminated product and the onset of symptoms, meaning additional cases may still emerge in the coming weeks.
Although the Quarter Pounder has been removed from stores, Moore reassured the public that there is no need to avoid eating at McDonald’s. “The concerning product has been removed, and McDonald’s is cooperating fully with the investigation,” she said.
Health officials in Utah are collaborating with the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) to identify the specific ingredient responsible for the outbreak and prevent further cases. Moore advised individuals experiencing symptoms of E. coli, especially severe dehydration, or bloody diarrhea, to seek medical attention.
For now, Utah residents will not be able to purchase Quarter Pounders, and health authorities remain vigilant as they work to contain the outbreak
