The CDC has provided a new update on the ongoing investigation into the multistate outbreak of E. coli O157 infections, which has been linked to onions served at McDonald’s locations. According to the latest report, epidemiologic and traceback data indicate that fresh, slivered onions used in McDonald’s Quarter Pounder burgers are the likely, but not yet definitive, source of this outbreak.
Current Findings
As of October 30, a total of 90 individuals have been reported sick across 13 states, with illness onset dates ranging from September 27 to October 16. Among those affected, 27 people have been hospitalized, and two have developed hemolytic uremic syndrome (HUS), a severe condition that can cause kidney failure. Tragically, one elderly individual in Colorado has died, although this person was not one of those diagnosed with HUS.
Public health officials warn that the actual number of cases could be higher, as many people recover without seeking medical care or being tested for E. coli. The outbreak may also extend beyond the states with currently known cases, with reports still pending due to the usual delay in determining if a sick person is part of an outbreak.
Demographic Insights
- Age Range: 13 to 88 years, with a median age of 30.
- Sex Distribution: 41% female, 59% male.
- Racial Demographics: 96% of those reporting are White, with other groups representing 3% African American/Black and 1% reporting more than one race.
- Ethnicity: 92% of affected individuals are non-Hispanic, and 8% are Hispanic.
Link to McDonald’s Menu Items
Out of 62 interviewed individuals, all reported eating at McDonald’s in the week prior to getting sick. Eighty-three percent of these individuals consumed menu items that included fresh, slivered onions, and 79% consumed menu items containing fresh Quarter Pounder beef patties. Three individuals reported eating menu items that included onions but not the beef patties, indicating a possible link to the slivered onions served. One person reported a menu item with a fresh quarter pound beef patty but without fresh, slivered onions.
Traceback and Laboratory Data
FDA and other public health agencies are focusing their investigations on a processing facility operated by Taylor Farms in Colorado and a Washington state onion grower. However, no specific grower has been conclusively implicated at this time. Taylor Farms initiated a voluntary recall of yellow slivered onions on October 22, asking food service operators to remove affected products from their menus.
Laboratory analyses conducted by the Colorado Department of Agriculture have found no E. coli contamination in the beef patties served at McDonald’s, and the USDA-FSIS has not identified ground beef as a source. The FDA and other agencies continue to monitor the situation closely.
Ongoing Investigation and Precautions
While the CDC and FDA indicate that fresh, slivered onions are the likely source of this outbreak, the investigation remains ongoing. It is essential to note that final conclusions have not yet been reached, and more information is expected in the coming days. Until then, Taylor Farms has recalled all potentially affected products, and McDonald’s has removed the slivered onions from impacted locations as a precautionary measure.
Public health officials recommend that individuals who have symptoms of E. coli infection, such as severe stomach cramps, diarrhea (often bloody), and vomiting, seek medical attention promptly. People who believe they have contracted E. coli should report their symptoms and food history to health professionals to assist in the investigation.
Conclusion
OnionBusiness.com urges its readers to stay informed about this ongoing investigation and to rely on verified updates from public health agencies. While onions have been identified as the likely source, the investigation has not reached a definitive conclusion.
