E. Coli Outbreak Linked to McDonald’s Quarter Pounder

As of October 24, 2024, an E. coli outbreak has been linked to McDonald’s Quarter Pounder hamburgers, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). The outbreak has impacted 49 people across 10 states, with most sick people reporting eating Quarter Pounder hamburgers from McDonald’s. Ten people have been hospitalized and one person has died in the outbreak so far.

States Affected
The outbreak has been traced across 10 states: Colorado, Kansas, Utah, Wyoming, Idaho, Iowa, Missouri, Montana, Nebraska, and Nevada. McDonald’s has temporarily removed the Quarter Pounder from restaurants in these states as a precaution.

Investigation and Response
Investigators are still trying to figure out what specific ingredient in the Quarter Pounder is contaminated. McDonald’s has pulled fresh slivered onions and quarter-pound beef patties in multiple states. The CDC is working with the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), the United States Department of Agriculture’s Food Safety and Inspection Service (USDA-FSIS), and state and local public health partners to investigate the outbreak.
McDonald’s has stated that they are taking swift and decisive action following the E. coli outbreak. They have also said that they take food safety extremely seriously and that they are committed to providing timely updates as they restore their full menu.

Symptoms of E. coli
Symptoms of E. coli infection vary for each person but often include severe stomach cramps, diarrhea (often bloody), and vomiting. Some people may also have a fever. Most people get sick 3 to 4 days after eating or drinking something that contains the bacteria.

Recommendations
* If you have eaten a Quarter Pounder from McDonald’s recently and are experiencing symptoms of E. coli, please contact your healthcare provider immediately.
* Avoid eating Quarter Pounders from McDonald’s until the investigation is complete.
* Always practice proper food safety habits, such as washing your hands thoroughly after handling raw meat and cooking meat to the proper temperature.
Updates
The CDC will continue to provide updates on the outbreak as more information becomes available. You can stay up-to-date by visiting the CDC’s website or following them on social media.

Additional Resources
* CDC’s Food Safety Alert:

* McDonald’s Statement:

Please note that this is a developing situation and information may change. It is important to stay informed and follow the recommendations of public health officials.