What is E Coli that has spread through McDonald's burgers | Know symptoms

PTC Web Desk: A deadly E. coli outbreak connected to McDonald's Quarter Pounder hamburgers has claimed one life and left 49 others sick, primarily in the states of Colorado and Nebraska, according to a recent report from the Centres for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). The CDC suspects that slivered onions used in the burgers are the primary source of contamination.

What is E coli?

Escherichia coli (E. coli) is a common bacterium found in the intestines of humans and animals. While many strains of E. coli are harmless and beneficial for gut health, some strains, such as E. coli O157, can lead to serious foodborne illnesses.

The CDC, in collaboration with the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), has identified the onions used in McDonald's Quarter Pounders as the "likely source" of contamination. In response, McDonald's has temporarily suspended the sale of Quarter Pounders in 12 states, including Colorado, Nebraska, Kansas, and Utah. The fast-food chain has also stopped using the suspected onions while the investigation continues to determine if the hamburger patties may also be contaminated.

So far, 10 persons have been hospitalised, including a child with a complicating illness, and one Colorado resident has died. The CDC warns that the actual number of cases could be higher, as many people may recover without seeking medical care. The outbreak, which is considered "fast-moving," affected customers who consumed the burgers between late September and mid-October.

Symptoms of E. coli Infection

Symptoms of E. coli infection often include severe stomach cramps, bloody diarrhea, vomiting, and sometimes mild fever. Symptoms typically appear three to four days after exposure, but can occur as early as one day or as late as 10 days after contact with the bacteria. Most people recover within 5 to 7 days, but in severe cases, the infection can lead to hemolytic uremic syndrome (HUS), a life-threatening condition that affects the kidneys and may require hospitalisation.

The CDC advises individuals to seek medical help if they experience prolonged diarrhea (over 3 days), high fever (over 102°F), bloody diarrhea, severe vomiting, or signs of dehydration, such as dry mouth or dizziness.