The investigation into an E. coli O157 outbreak linked to McDonald’s Quarter Pounders continues to progress as federal, state, and local agencies collaborate to trace the source of the contamination.

So far, 75 confirmed cases of illness have been reported across 13 states, with infections occurring between September 27 and October 10, 2024.

Among those affected, 22 individuals have required hospitalization, with two developing hemolytic uremic syndrome, a serious condition that can result in kidney failure.

The outbreak has also resulted in the death of an elderly individual in Colorado.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), and the USDA’s Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS) are working with public health authorities at the state level to track down the source of the outbreak.

In interviews with affected individuals, all 42 respondents confirmed dining at McDonald’s, and 39 of them reported consuming a beef hamburger, suggesting a possible link to ingredients used in these meals.

As part of the ongoing inquiry, the FDA is actively examining whether slivered onions, supplied by Taylor Farms to McDonald’s, could be responsible for the contamination.

To support this effort, the FDA and state partners have begun collecting and testing samples of onions.

“We are using all available tools to confirm if onions are the source.”

Stated the FDA. Investigators are also reviewing distribution records to trace the path of potentially affected products.

Taylor Farms, the supplier implicated in the probe, has issued a voluntary recall of the onions in question, notifying all food service partners who received the recalled product.

As part of preventive actions, the FDA is keeping a close watch on developments and coordinating with companies involved to assess whether additional recalls or public alerts will be necessary.

“We will continue to provide updates as they become available,” the agency noted, emphasizing its commitment to transparency throughout the investigation.

While the focus remains on tracing the product’s distribution, officials have confirmed that no reports of contamination or illness have emerged outside the United States.

Customers and partners impacted by the recall have been notified directly, with public health officials advising caution until the source of the outbreak is definitively identified.

Health authorities recommend that consumers remain vigilant about any symptoms associated with E. coli, which may include severe stomach cramps, diarrhea, and vomiting.

If symptoms develop, individuals are encouraged to seek immediate medical care.

Case Count

• Total Illnesses: 75
• Hospitalizations: 22
• Deaths: 1
• Last Illness Onset: October 10, 2024
• States with Cases: CO, IA, KS, MI, MO, MT, NE, NM, OR, UT, WA, WI, and WY