E. coli in McDonald’s Burgers in the US: One Dead, 49 Sickened

All surveyed individuals reported eating at McDonald's before feeling ill, with suspicions that the discomfort could stem from the hamburger meat or onions in a specific burger. What could be the trigger?

Health Alert at McDonald’s

On October 22, 2024, a tragic incident struck the United States when one person died and dozens fell ill after consuming products from McDonald’s, as reported by the U.S. health authorities. The cause? An infection from the bacterium Escherichia coli.

Epidemic Details

The majority of those infected were located in Colorado and Nebraska, with a total of 10 Western states affected. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) indicated that 49 individuals were infected with the same strain of the bacterium, requiring 10 hospitalizations, and one elderly person died in Colorado.

Victims consistently reported eating at McDonald’s, with many having ordered the “Quarter Pounder.” The likely sources of the bacterium were identified as either the beef patty or the onions in the burger. McDonald’s has since removed these ingredients from the affected states pending an investigation.

McDonald’s Response

In a video message, Joe Erlinger, president of McDonald’s USA, stated: “We have proactively removed the shredded onions used in our ‘Quarter Pounders’ in certain states. We have also temporarily removed the Quarter Pounder from the menus in some states.”

This health scare significantly impacted the stock market, with McDonald’s shares dropping over 8% after the market closed in New York.

Effects of the Bacteria

While most E. coli strains are harmless, some can be harmful, producing a toxin known as Shiga-toxin which can lead to food poisoning. Symptoms include stomach cramps, diarrhea, and vomiting, typically lasting three to four days.

Fortunately, most individuals recover without treatment, but in 5 to 8% of cases, severe kidney complications can occur, especially in children. If no symptoms appear within 15 days after consuming the affected products, medical consultation is not necessary.