More than 100 customers fell ill – the symptoms at a glance

More than 104 cases: Health authorities are investigating the bacterial infestation at McDonald’s in the USA. The disease can have serious consequences.

Frankfurt – The serious outbreak of coliform bacteria (E.Coli) at McDonald’s in the USA continues to expand. The number of sick people has increased significantly. Some of those affected are said to suffer from severe illnesses.

Over a hundred sick people: McDonald’s is overshadowed by the bacteria scandal

The recent outbreak of E. coli O157:H7 infections has caused concern in several US states. As of November 13, 2024, 104 cases have been reported in 14 states. The US authority suspects that the actual number of sick people is much higher than the reported number Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).

Of the 98 documented cases, 34 people required hospitalization. Four developed hemolytic uremic syndrome (HUS), a serious condition that can lead to kidney failure. One death was reported in Colorado. 99 percent of those affected said they had previously eaten at the popular fast food chain.

Cut onions are said to be the source of the illness – manufacturer initiates recall

Epidemiological and tracing data collected by the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA), suggest that sliced ​​onions served on Quarter Pounder burgers at McDonald’s are the likely source of the contamination. Taylor Farms, a supplier to McDonald’s, has a voluntary one on October 22, 2024 recall introduced by yellow onions. The manufacturer has informed its food service customers not to use the recalled onions.

McDonald’s subsequently stopped using these onions in affected stores. The affected onions were distributed to McDonald’s locations in several states, as well as to other food service customers.

Life-threatening illness: Bacteria can cause kidney failure

An E. coli infection can cause severe stomach cramps, diarrhea, fever, nausea and vomiting. In severe cases, it can lead to bloody diarrhea and life-threatening conditions such as HUS. This threatens acute kidney failure because toxins attack the cells of the kidney vessels and cause them to die. In addition, red blood cells are destroyed, which leads to anemia in the body, such as Munich Clinic enlightens.

The bacteria scandal at McDonald’s is expanding. © imageBROKER/Infinity News Collec/Imago

The FDA and its partners continue to conduct investigations to identify the exact source of the contamination. Samples of onions and environmental samples from affected McDonald’s stores are being analyzed. An FDA sample of the recalled onions tested positive for a different strain of E. coli that does not match the outbreak strain. Investigations continue to identify all possible sources of contamination.

At the beginning of the year, the fast food giant suffered a scandal in which customers complained about a “total failure”. (mg)

What preventive measures can​ consumers take to reduce the⁢ risk ‍of E. coli infection when dining out?

1. What are the primary symptoms of E. coli infection?

2. How serious can‍ an infection with E. coli bacteria be,‌ and what complications can it cause?

3. What is the current status of the outbreak⁢ investigation at McDonald’s, and how many people have been‌ affected⁣ so far?

4. Have there⁣ been any previous ​incidents of foodborne illness outbreaks at ⁢McDonald’s or other fast ⁢food chains, and how ‌does this compare?

5. How long does it typically take ⁣for ⁢outbreaks like this to be contained and resolved?

6. What are some of the challenges in tracing the source of contamination in foodborne illness outbreaks, and how can these be addressed?

7. ‍What recourse do consumers⁢ have​ when⁤ there⁤ is a food recall due to contamination or illness?

8. Do you think stringent food safety regulations and‍ regular testing are enough to prevent future outbreaks, or is there a need for more⁤ vigilance from both​ manufacturers and consumers?