CDC: Colorado death linked to McDonald's E. coli outbreak

DENVER (KDVR) — The Centers for Disease Control said Tuesday that a fast-moving E. coli outbreak in 10 states has been linked to McDonald's Quarter Pounder hamburgers. One person in Colorado has died, while 49 people have gotten sick overall.

According to the CDC, all 49 got sick from the same strain of E. coli. Of the 49, 27 were from Colorado and nine were from Nebraska. One child has also been hospitalized.

Additionally, people in Utah, Wyoming, Kansas, Missouri, Iowa, Wisconsin, Montana and Oregon have all reported cases.

The CDC reported that everyone who was interviewed said they had eaten at McDonald's before their illness began, and most specifically mentioned eating a Quarter Pounder.

The first reported illness happened on Sept. 29, with the last reported illness on Oct. 11, according to CDC data. The CDC said it usually takes 3 to 4 weeks to determine if a sick person is part of an outbreak.

The specific ingredient has not been identified. Investigators are focused on two ingredients in particular, however: fresh, slivered onions and the fresh beef patties.

McDonald's has proactively removed the onions and the patties used for the Quarter Pounder hamburgers from stores in affected states as the investigation continues, according to the CDC.

Because of this, Quarter Pounders may not be available in some states.

The symptoms of E. coli include severe stomach cramps, diarrhea and vomiting. Symptoms usually start 3 to 4 days after swallowing the bacteria. Most people recover without treatment after 5 to 7 days.

Anyone who has eaten a McDonald's Quarter Pounder and has symptoms of E. coli are asked to contact their health care provider.