The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) announced on Wednesday that the number of illnesses associated with the E. coli outbreak connected to McDonald’s Quarter Pounder burgers has increased.

The count of those infected has risen from 90, reported in the previous update on Oct. 30, to 104 individuals across 14 states. Among those affected, 34 have been hospitalized, four patients developed hemolytic uremic syndrome (a serious condition potentially leading to kidney failure), and there has been one reported death in Colorado.

This outbreak was first noted on Oct. 22 and is linked to raw slivered onions served on Quarter Pounder burgers. McDonald’s confirmed to YSL News that the onion supplier, Taylor Farms, was involved in the regions affected by the E. coli cases and that US Foods had initiated a recall of raw diced, peeled, and whole peeled onions from Taylor Farms on Oct. 22. However, it was clarified that the recalled Taylor Farms onions in Colorado were not connected to the removal of Quarter Pounders, according to the company.

Following the update released on Wednesday, McDonald’s announced on its website that it had “identified a new supplier for the roughly 900 restaurants that had temporarily halted sales of Quarter Pounder burgers containing slivered onions.”

The affected restaurants have resumed selling Quarter Pounders with onions in the past week, as stated. The statement also reflected the FDA’s position that there “doesn’t seem to be an ongoing food safety issue related to this outbreak at McDonald’s restaurants.”

“We prioritize food safety above all else, and we remain dedicated to making the right decisions,” McDonald’s emphasized in its statement. “We appreciate the support and teamwork of public health authorities, which enabled McDonald’s to act quickly and effectively to safeguard our customers and public health.”

Which states are experiencing the E. coli outbreak?

As of Nov. 13, illnesses attributed to the E. coli outbreak have been identified in 14 states, according to the CDC.

• Colorado (30)
• Iowa (1)
• Kansas (3)
• Michigan (2)
• Missouri (8)
• Montana (19)
• Nebraska (13)
• New Mexico (10)
• North Carolina (1)
• Oregon (1)
• Utah (8)
• Washington (1)
• Wisconsin (1)
• Wyoming (6)

Symptoms of E. coli infection

While most Escherichia coli (E. coli) strains are harmless and live within the intestines of humans and animals, some can lead to gastrointestinal illnesses ranging from mild to severe, according to the CDC.

The USDA indicates that symptoms of E. coli infection typically emerge two to eight days post-exposure and generally last approximately one week. They might include:

• Dehydration
• Bloody diarrhea
• Abdominal cramps
• Fever

In rare circumstances, particularly in older adults and children under five, some individuals may develop hemolytic uremic syndrome (HUS), characterized by easy bruising, pale skin, and reduced urine production. These individuals should seek immediate emergency medical assistance.

• Diarrhea accompanied by a fever over 102°F
  • Diarrhea lasting more than three days without improvement
  • Bloody diarrhea
• Severe vomiting that prevents them from keeping liquids down
• Signs of dehydration, such as:
  • Little or no urination
  • Dry mouth and throat
  • Dizziness upon standing