McDonald’s Quarter Pounder Linked to E. Coli Outbreak—Including 1 Death

The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has announced an investigation into an outbreak of E. coli infections in 10 states across the country as of Oct. 22. Most people have reported eating a Quarter Pounder hamburger at McDonald’s before becoming sick, though it's not yet determined which specific food might be the cause. This fast-moving investigation is working to find the source of the contamination in collaboration with McDonald's, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), the Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS), and other public health officials.

According to the CDC's Food Safety Alert, Quarter Pounder hamburgers will be temporarily unavailable in some states, and the fast food company has proactively stopped using fresh slivered onions and quarter pound beef patties—both unique to the Quarter Pounder menu item—until the investigation turns up the source of the E. coli bacteria.

Initial traceback information from the FDA shows that the onions are a likely source of contamination and the agency is working quickly to confirm and determine whether these were used or sold elsewhere. The FSIS is conducting further research on hamburger patties as a source of illness as well.

Where Is the McDonald's Quarter Pounder E. Coli Outbreak Occurring?

So far, these states have reported cases: Colorado, with 26; Nebraska, with nine; Wyoming and Utah, both with four; Oregon, Montana, Kansas, Iowa, Wisconsin, and Missouri, each with one.

Illnesses started on dates ranging from Sept. 27 to Oct 11. Of the 28 people with available information, 10 have been hospitalized, including one person who developed a serious condition that can lead to kidney failure. Additionally, one death has been reported in Colorado.

The true number affected is likely much higher and spans more states, as reporting usually takes three to four weeks to be accounted for in such an outbreak.

What To Do if You Ate a Quarter Pounder and Have Symptoms Associated With E. Coli Infections

The CDC recommends you call your healthcare provider if you ate a McDonald’s Quarter Pounder hamburger and have severe E. coli symptoms. Symptoms include stomach cramps, diarrhea, excessive vomiting, a fever over 102 degrees F (39 degrees C), and/or dizziness, which can start three to four days after ingesting the bacteria. Most people recover on their own without treatment after five to seven days. However, serious complications can develop, so it's important to consult professionals if concerns arise.