New Mexico, This McDonald’s Item is Causing Serious Illness

A recent E. coli outbreak connected to McDonald’s Quarter Pounders has resulted in at least 49 illnesses across 10 states, including one fatality, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). The outbreak has prompted McDonald’s to remove the Quarter Pounder from menus in affected states, including New Mexico.

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Quarter Pounders Under Scrutiny

The CDC issued a food safety alert after dozens of people who had eaten McDonald’s Quarter Pounders reported falling ill. While the specific cause of the contamination is still under investigation, both slivered onions and beef patties used in the sandwiches are suspected as possible sources. McDonald’s has temporarily pulled these ingredients from its restaurants in states like Colorado, Utah, Kansas, and New Mexico, as well as several others, to prevent further spread of the bacteria.

McDonald’s supplier Taylor Farms Colorado has also removed yellow onions from the market out of caution, although their tests have yet to find traces of E. coli.

E. Coli Risks and Symptoms

E. coli, a common bacteria, can cause serious illness in certain strains. Symptoms often begin a few days after exposure and include severe stomach cramps, diarrhea, vomiting, and fever. In more severe cases, particularly in vulnerable populations like seniors and children, E. coli infections can lead to kidney complications.

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In the current outbreak, 10 people have been hospitalized, with one child developing hemolytic uremic syndrome (HUS), a life-threatening condition. While most of the illnesses have been concentrated in Colorado and Nebraska, the CDC warns that the outbreak could spread as new cases are identified in states such as Iowa, Kansas, and New Mexico.

McDonald’s Response and Next Steps

McDonald’s has removed Quarter Pounders from menus in about 20% of its locations while continuing to cooperate with health officials. The company maintains that its food is safe and has implemented heightened safety measures in restaurants nationwide. According to McDonald’s USA President Joe Erlinger, it is now "safe to enjoy classics" at their locations, though the investigation into the outbreak is ongoing.

Customers who recently consumed a Quarter Pounder and are experiencing symptoms are encouraged to seek medical attention, especially if symptoms like high fever or prolonged diarrhea develop.