The outbreak of coliform bacteria at the American fast food giant McDonald’s has led to significantly more people becoming ill than initially expected. The number of people affected has already risen to more than 100; many suffer from serious illness.
In no fewer than fourteen American states, people have become ill after consuming the popular Quarter Pounder. According to the American health authority CDC, the culprit was pre-cut onions, which spread coliform bacteria. At least 34 affected people required hospital treatment due to the disease and one elderly person has already died.
Dangerous HUS syndrome in some patients
Although the disease itself is unpleasant, four people in particular were severely affected. As a result of the infection, they suffer from hemolytic uremic syndrome (HUS), which can lead to acute kidney failure and be fatal, the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) said on Wednesday.
The cause of the outbreak is probably clear
Research by the authorities also shows that the outbreak can actually be traced back to the visit to McDonald’s. 99 percent of those surveyed said they had recently consumed a Quarter Pounder there. Several onion and environmental samples are now being examined to definitively rule out another possible cause.
The scandal hit the company hard; Shortly after the outbreak became known, the share price collapsed, the popular burger was quickly removed from the range and was then only offered without onions. The fast food chain also announced that it will not purchase onion products from supplier Taylor Farms in the future.
Infection with serious consequences
An infection with Escherichia coli (E. coli for short), especially pathogenic strains such as EHEC, usually leads to gastrointestinal complaints. Typical symptoms are nausea, abdominal pain, diarrhea and sometimes vomiting. In more severe cases, bloody diarrhea and fever may occur.
Certain types of E. coli, especially EHEC, carry a risk of serious complications such as hemolytic uremic syndrome (HUS), which can cause kidney failure, anemia and neurological problems. Children, the elderly and people with weakened immune systems are particularly at risk.
Source: Krone
I’m Ben Stock, a journalist and author at Today Times Live. I specialize in economic news and have been working in the news industry for over five years. My experience spans from local journalism to international business reporting. In my career I’ve had the opportunity to interview some of the world’s leading economists and financial experts, giving me an insight into global trends that is unique among journalists.
