Investigation Start Date: October 22, 2024
Investigation Status: Open
Recall Issued: No
A fast-moving investigation is underway concerning an E. coli O157 outbreak linked to McDonald’s Quarter Pounder hamburgers. Most affected individuals report having eaten these burgers before falling ill.
Investigators are working swiftly to identify the contaminated ingredient. In response, McDonald’s has temporarily removed certain ingredients from the Quarter Pounder, leading to its unavailability in several states.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Food Safety and Inspection Service (USDA FSIS), and public health officials across multiple states are involved in the investigation. While it is unclear which specific ingredient is causing the illnesses, most cases have been reported in Colorado and Nebraska.
To protect customers, McDonald’s has ceased using fresh slivered onions and quarter-pound beef patties in affected states during the ongoing investigation. These beef patties are exclusive to the Quarter Pounder, and slivered onions are primarily used in these burgers.
What You Should Do:
If you have consumed a McDonald’s Quarter Pounder and are experiencing severe E. coli symptoms, contact your healthcare provider immediately. Symptoms include:
Diarrhea with a fever over 102°F
Diarrhea lasting more than three days without improvement
Bloody diarrhea
Excessive vomiting preventing liquid intake
Signs of dehydration, such as:
Reduced urination
Dry mouth and throat
Dizziness when standing
Symptoms of E. coli:
Individuals infected with Shiga toxin-producing E. coli typically experience severe stomach cramps, diarrhea (often bloody), and vomiting. Symptoms generally appear 3 to 4 days after exposure to the bacteria and most people recover without treatment within 5 to 7 days. However, some may develop serious kidney issues, known as hemolytic uremic syndrome (HUS), requiring hospitalization.
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