CDC: McDonald's Quarter Pounder linked to deadly E. coli outbreak

DENVER (KDVR) — The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention said Tuesday that a fast-moving E. coli outbreak in 10 states has been linked to McDonald's Quarter Pounder hamburgers. At least one person has died in connection to this outbreak, officials noted.

According to the CDC, 49 people got sick from the same strain of E. coli. Of the 49, 27 were from Colorado and nine were from Nebraska. Additional cases were reported in Oregon, Montana, Utah, Wyoming, Kansas, Iowa, Missouri, and Wisconsin.

One child has also been hospitalized, and one person from Colorado reportedly died after becoming ill.

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 most recently reported illness coming 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, vomiting, and a fever. Symptoms usually start 3 to 4 days after consuming the bacteria. Most people recover without treatment after 5 to 7 days. Younger children, however, are at a higher risk of becoming sick and experiencing more serious complications.

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