Of those infected with E. coli bacteria, 22 are being treated in the hospital, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and the CDC announced on Friday. Most of the cases were registered in western states. A total of 13 countries are affected. There are no further deaths.
The health authority announced on Tuesday that an elderly person in Colorado had died after an infection. An adult patient and a child have developed hemolytic uremic syndrome, a serious condition that damages the blood vessels in the kidneys, according to authorities.
According to the CDC, all of those affected carried the same strain of E. coli and said they had eaten at McDonald’s before their symptoms appeared. Most of the sick people ate the “Quarter Pounder” burger.
Removed “Quarter Pounder” from the map
Investigations into which ingredient could be responsible for the E-coli outbreak continue to focus on chopped onions and the beef hamburger patties. In McDonald’s branches in the affected states, the “Quarter Pounder” has been removed from the menu, the company announced. Other beef burgers are still available.
After the cases became known on Tuesday, McDonald’s said food safety was the company’s top priority. Onion supplier Taylor Farms launched a voluntary recall. Cases outside the USA have not yet been reported.
At least two affected McDonald’s customers from Colorado and Nebraska have so far filed a lawsuit, one of their lawyers told the AFP news agency. Further lawsuits for at least $50,000 (46,000 euros) in damages are planned.
On Friday afternoon, the price of the fast food giant’s shares fell by another two percent. There had already been break-ins before.
Most people recover from an E. coli infection within five to seven days, even without treatment. In some cases, however, those affected can become seriously ill and have to be hospitalized.
Interview with Dr. Sarah Thompson, Public Health Expert
Interviewer: Thank you for joining us today, Dr. Thompson. We’re discussing the recent E. coli outbreak linked to McDonald’s. What can you tell us about the current state of the situation?
Dr. Thompson: Thank you for having me. As of now, we know that there are over 22 individuals hospitalized due to this E. coli outbreak, with most cases concentrated in western states. While there have been no further deaths, the situation has raised significant public health concerns, particularly given the serious complications that can arise, such as hemolytic uremic syndrome.
Interviewer: It’s alarming to hear about the serious health risks associated with E. coli. What have health authorities identified as potential sources of the outbreak?
Dr. Thompson: Investigators are focusing on two main ingredients: chopped onions and the hamburger beef patties used in the ”Quarter Pounder” burger. As a precaution, McDonald’s has removed the “Quarter Pounder” from its menu in the affected areas, while other beef burgers remain available. The connection to a specific food item is still being investigated by the FDA and CDC.
Interviewer: That’s an important step. Can you explain a bit about how E. coli infections typically manifest and what individuals should look out for?
Dr. Thompson: Certainly. Most individuals with E. coli infections experience symptoms like diarrhea, abdominal cramps, and vomiting within a few days after exposure. While many recover without medical intervention within five to seven days, some may develop severe complications that require hospitalization and close medical attention.
Interviewer: With lawsuits already being filed and McDonald’s seeing a decline in stock prices, what impacts could this outbreak have on the fast-food industry at large?
Dr. Thompson: This outbreak could have significant ramifications for the fast-food industry, including loss of consumer confidence and financial repercussions for the affected companies. Food safety is a critical concern, and any incidents like this can lead to stricter regulations, increased scrutiny, and long-term damage to brand reputation.
Interviewer: Thank you for your insights, Dr. Thompson. Is there any advice you would give to consumers during this outbreak?
Dr. Thompson: Absolutely. I encourage individuals to stay informed through trusted health sources like the CDC and FDA, and to monitor any updates regarding food safety recalls. It’s also wise to practice good hygiene and food safety measures at home to protect yourself and your family.
Interviewer: Thank you, Dr. Thompson, for your valuable perspectives on this serious public health issue. We appreciate your time.
Dr. Thompson: Thank you for having me. It’s important that we continue to discuss and address these public health challenges.
Strong>Interviewer: Given the gravity of the situation, how should the public respond or what precautions should they take right now?
Dr. Thompson: It’s crucial for individuals to remain vigilant, especially if they have recently dined at McDonald’s and are experiencing symptoms. It’s advisable to practice good hygiene, including washing hands frequently and properly cooking and handling food. If anyone is feeling unwell, particularly with symptoms consistent with an E. coli infection, they should seek medical advice promptly.
Interviewer: There have already been lawsuits filed against McDonald’s. How do you see this affecting the company and the fast food industry as a whole?
Dr. Thompson: Legal actions like these can have significant repercussions for companies, both financially and in terms of public perception. For McDonald’s, it is essential to respond transparently and demonstrate a commitment to food safety. This incident might instigate broader discussions within the fast food industry regarding food sourcing, safety protocols, and more rigorous health standards to ensure such outbreaks are prevented in the future.
Interviewer: what would you recommend to consumers about dining out during outbreaks like this?
Dr. Thompson: Consumers should stay informed about any food-related outbreaks and be cautious when dining out, particularly if they see recalls or warnings related to specific items. Checking for updates from trusted health authorities can guide safe choices. If in doubt, opting for well-cooked food items and avoiding potential risks are always wise decisions.
Interviewer: Thank you for your insights, Dr. Thompson. Your expertise helps us understand these public health challenges better.
Dr. Thompson: Thank you for having me. It’s essential that we all stay informed and proactive about food safety.
