An E coli outbreak linked to McDonald’s Quarter Pounder sandwiches has led to at least 49 illnesses in 10 US states, with Burger King, KFC, and Taco Bell also affected. The fast-food chains have pulled fresh onions from some restaurants, with Burger King’s parent company and Yum Brands making the announcement. Illegal Pete’s, a Mexican fast-food chain, has also temporarily removed menu items containing onions. The California-based supplier, Taylor Farms, has not responded to requests for comment. McDonald’s has removed its Quarter Pounder from some outlets after the CDC linked it to the food poisonings. The outbreak has mostly affected Colorado and Nebraska, with one older adult reportedly dying. E coli O157:H7, the bacteria responsible, causes over 2,000 hospitalizations and 61 deaths in the US annually. Symptoms of E coli poisoning include fever, vomiting, diarrhea, and signs of dehydration, posing a greater risk to young children, the elderly, pregnant individuals, and those with weakened immune systems.
Source
Photo credit www.aljazeera.com