The Centers for Disease Control and the Food and Drug Administration have reported an increase in E. coli-related illnesses connected to McDonald’s Quarter Pounder burgers as of Wednesday.

The number of confirmed cases has increased from 90 on October 30 to a total of 104 affected individuals across 14 states. Among those who have gotten sick, 34 have required hospitalization, four have developed hemolytic uremic syndrome (a serious condition affecting the kidneys), and there has been one death reported in Colorado.

The outbreak was first identified on October 22, and it has been linked to raw slivered onions used on Quarter Pounder burgers. McDonald’s clarified to YSL News that their supplier, Taylor Farms, provided these onions for the affected locations. On October 22, US Foods, the parent company, initiated a recall of raw diced, peeled, and whole peeled onions from Taylor Farms. However, they stated that the recalled onions from Colorado were not connected to the discontinuation of Quarter Pounders.

Following the latest update, McDonald’s released an announcement on its website indicating that they have “secured an alternative supplier for the approximately 900 restaurants that temporarily halted the sale of Quarter Pounder burgers with slivered onions.”

McDonald’s reported that these restaurants have begun serving Quarter Pounders with onions again over the past week. The company reiterated the FDA’s statement that there seems to be no ongoing food safety issue related to the outbreak at McDonald’s establishments.

“We prioritize food safety above all else and remain dedicated to making responsible choices,” stated a representative from McDonald’s. “We appreciate the collaboration of public health authorities which enabled McDonald’s to act quickly and effectively to safeguard our customers and public health.”

Which states are affected by the E. coli outbreak?

As of November 13, 14 states have reported cases of illnesses linked to the E. coli outbreak, per the CDC.

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

Symptoms of E. coli Poisoning

While most Escherichia coli (E. coli) bacteria live harmlessly in the intestines of people and animals, certain strains can lead to gastrointestinal illnesses ranging from mild to severe, according to the CDC.

As per the USDA, symptoms of E. coli poisoning typically manifest between two and eight days after exposure and generally last approximately one week. These symptoms may include:

• Dehydration
• Bloody diarrhea
• Abdominal cramps
• Fever

In infrequent cases, especially in young children and elderly adults, some individuals may develop hemolytic uremic syndrome (HUS), characterized by easy bruising, paleness, and reduced urine production. These individuals should seek emergency medical care right away.

• Fever above 102°F with diarrhea
  • Diarrhea persisting more than three days without improvement
  • Bloody diarrhea
• Severe vomiting that prevents keeping liquids down
• Signs of dehydration, such as:
  • Low urine output
  • Dry mouth and throat
  • Dizziness when standing up