E. Coli Outbreak Linked To McDonald’s Quarter Pounders Impacts WI

WISCONSIN — E. coli food poisoning linked to McDonald’s Quarter Pounder hamburgers has sickened at least 49 people in 10 states, including Wisconsin.

One death was reported in connection with the outbreak, according to the Centers for Disease Control. That death was reported to be an older person in Colorado.

At least 10 others in the outbreak have been hospitalized, including one person who developed hemolytic uremic syndrome, a serious condition that can cause kidney failure.

"This is a fast-moving outbreak investigation," the CDC said. "The true number of sick people in this outbreak is likely much higher than the number reported, and the outbreak may not be limited to the states with known illnesses."

Authorities said it usually takes three to four weeks to determine if a sick person is part of an outbreak.

Reported infections are believed to have taken place between Sept. 27 and Oct. 11. Colorado, with 27, has the most cases, followed by Nebraska with nine. Other affected states include Iowa, Kansas, Missouri, Montana, Oregon, Utah, and Wyoming.

Investigators believe the slivered onions and beef patties used for Quarter Pounders may be the culprit for the outbreak. McDonald's has removed those ingredients, and the burgers may be temporarily unavailable in the affected states.

People who ate a McDonald’s Quarter Pounder hamburger and have severe E. coli symptoms are urged to call their healthcare provider.

E. coli symptoms include:

• Diarrhea and a fever higher than 102°F
  • Diarrhea for more than 3 days that is not improving
  • Bloody diarrhea
• So much vomiting that you cannot keep liquids down
• Signs of dehydration, such as:
  • Not peeing much
  • Dry mouth and throat
  • Feeling dizzy when standing up

The U.S. Agriculture Department, the Food and Drug Administration, and state health officials are assisting the CDC in the investigation.