CDC Investigates E. coli Outbreak Linked to McDonald’s Quarter Pounders

A severe E. coli outbreak has been linked to McDonald's Quarter Pounder hamburgers, prompting an investigation by the CDC, FDA, USDA FSIS, and public health officials in multiple states. As of the latest reports, 49 people from 10 states have fallen ill, with the majority of cases reported in Colorado and Nebraska.

The outbreak has resulted in serious health consequences, including the hospitalization of ten people and the death of an older person in Colorado. The CDC has confirmed that most people who became sick reported eating McDonald’s Quarter Pounder hamburgers before their illness.

McDonald’s has taken proactive measures by stopping the use of fresh slivered onions and quarter pound beef patties in several states while the investigation continues to identify the specific contaminated ingredient. These ingredients are primarily used in Quarter Pounder hamburgers and not in other menu items.

Health officials advise individuals who have consumed a McDonald’s Quarter Pounder hamburger and are experiencing severe E. coli symptoms, such as diarrhea, fever, bloody diarrhea, or signs of dehydration, to contact their healthcare provider immediately.

The investigation is ongoing to determine if the contaminated ingredient was distributed to other restaurants or stores. McDonald’s shares have fallen in response to the outbreak, reflecting the immediate financial impact of the health crisis).