A troubling E. coli outbreak tied to McDonald’s popular Quarter Pounders continues to grow, now affecting 104 people across 14 states.

The latest report from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) confirms the addition of a new case connected to the fast food chain’s sliced onions.

New Case in North Carolina

The new victim, located in North Carolina, brings the total number of infected individuals even higher, though details about this case remain scarce.

This brings the total number of E. coli cases linked to the outbreak to 104, and authorities warn that more cases could surface in the coming weeks due to the delayed appearance of symptoms.

Hospitalizations and Fatalities

The CDC’s update also highlights the severity of the outbreak: 34 people have been hospitalized, including four individuals who have developed a serious kidney condition.

Sadly, one person has died. The illnesses started as early as September 12 and as late as October 21, but given the typical 3-4 week incubation period for E. coli symptoms, more cases could emerge.

The True Extent of the Outbreak

Health experts believe that the actual number of infected people is likely higher than reported.

Many individuals may recover without seeking medical attention or experiencing severe symptoms, meaning some cases go unnoticed.

Onions Found as Likely Culprit

The CDC’s investigation into the source of the outbreak has pointed to the chopped yellow onions used in McDonald’s Quarter Pounders, which were supplied by Taylor Farms, a company based in California.

The outbreak led McDonald’s to remove the burger from about a fifth of their locations, but the item has since returned to menus, albeit with some locations serving the burger without onions.

Other fast-food chains, including Burger King, Taco Bell, KFC, and Pizza Hut, also removed onions from their offerings as a precaution.

Legal Action from Victims

As the outbreak continues, some victims have begun legal action.

Clarissa DeBrock, one of the individuals affected, filed a lawsuit last month seeking compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, and emotional distress.

DeBrock fell ill after consuming a Quarter Pounder in Nebraska this past September.

Though the burger appeared and tasted normal, she began experiencing severe symptoms five days later, which led to an emergency room visit.

Tests confirmed she had contracted the same E. coli strain tied to the outbreak.

The Risk of E. Coli in the U.S.

Each year in the U.S., approximately 265,000 people become infected with E. coli, and more than 100 of these cases result in death, according to health officials.

E. coli infections are commonly caused by consuming contaminated food—ground beef, in particular, is a frequent source—though vegetables and unpasteurized milk can also be contaminated.

Vulnerable groups, including the elderly, young children, and those with weakened immune systems, are at a higher risk for severe illness from the bacteria.

Symptoms and Seeking Medical Care

Symptoms of an E. coli infection typically appear within 3-4 days of exposure, though they can emerge more than a week later.

These symptoms include stomach cramps, nausea, and diarrhea.

While most people recover within a few days, those who experience severe or bloody diarrhea should seek urgent medical care, as this may indicate a more serious infection.

This article was published on TDPel Media. Thanks for reading!

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