Hamburgers from McDonald’s, with E.coli bacteria

One person has died and dozens more have become ill after eating hamburgers from McDonald’s, US health authorities have announced.

The US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has issued a food safety alert related to an E.coli outbreak linked to McDonald’s Quarter Pounder hamburgers.

So far, at least 49 cases have been reported in 10 states, including one death among an elderly person. Of those affected, ten required hospitalization, including one child diagnosed with hemolytic uremic syndrome, a severe complication of E.coli infection. The most cases were recorded in Colorado and Nebraska.

What product did those who got sick consume?

According to the CDC, almost all patients reported consuming Quarter Pounder sandwiches from McDonald’s.

The investigation is progressing rapidly, according to the agency, and data reviewed by the US Food and Drug Administration suggests that finely chopped onions could be a source of contamination.

While the investigation is ongoing, McDonald’s has suspended the use of onions and beef patties in several states, according to information from the CDC.

“We are working closely with our suppliers to restore supply of the Quarter Pounder in the coming weeks (timing will vary by local market),” McDonald’s said.

“In the meantime, all other menu items, including other beef items (including Cheeseburger, Hamburger, Big Mac, McDouble and Double Cheeseburger) are unaffected and available,” it informs Antenna 3 CNN.

The FDA announced that McDonald’s has recalled sliced ​​onions and patties from restaurants in Colorado, Kansas, Utah, Wyoming and certain areas of Idaho, Iowa, Missouri, Montana, Nebraska, Nevada, New Mexico and Oklahoma. Also, in other states, Quarter Pounder burgers may not be available.

The epidemic could also affect other regions

E.coli infection can cause symptoms such as severe abdominal cramps, diarrhea, fever and vomiting. Symptoms usually appear three or four days after exposure to the bacteria. Although most affected people recover without treatment in about a week, some may develop serious kidney complications requiring hospitalization.

McDonald’s shares fell sharply in trading after the outbreak was announced.