USA: Escherichia coli cases in McDonald’s burgers

50 cases of Escherichia coli have been reported in the United States following the consumption of the McDonald’s Quarter Pounder burger. Cases were found in several states, including Oregon, Kansas, and Wisconsin, with 49 infected and 1 dead. The supply chain manager at McDonald’s North America said the disease could be caused by onions used in burgers coming from a single supplier for all distribution centres. The first cases were reported on 27 September and continued to increase until 11 October. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) is continuing research to identify the source ingredient of infections between sliced onions and beef meatballs. In any case, the distribution of the Quarter Pounder in the affected areas has been temporarily suspended. The CDC has stated that some Escherichia coli can produce the Shiga toxin which can cause serious illness and even death. Symptoms of Escherichia coli infection include stomach cramps, diarrhea, and vomiting which usually occur three to four days after consumption of the infected product.