A deadly E.coli outbreak linked to McDonalds quarter pounders has expanded to at least 75 people in 13 states, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) said Friday.
The CDC said 26 new cases have been reported in three new states, and everyone interviewed continues to report eating at the fast food chain before their illness started. The most recent outbreak started on Oct. 10.
The agency noted that 22 people have been hospitalized, and two people developed a serious condition that can cause kidney failure. One death was previously reported of an older adult in Colorado.
Cases have now been reported in Colorado, Iowa, Kansas, Michigan, Missouri, Montana, Nebraska, New Mexico, Oregon, Utah, Washington, Wisconsin and Wyoming.
No source for the contamination has been confirmed, but preliminary information reviewed by officials showed slivered onions used on the patties were a likely source, as well as the actual burger patties.
McDonald’s has temporarily stopped selling the burger in affected states while the investigation is ongoing.
McDonald’s officials said that the onions were supplied by Taylor Farms, a California-based produce grower.
CDC said the company has initiated a voluntary recall of some onions sent to food service operators and has asked customers to stop using some onions while this investigation is ongoing. Food service customers were contacted directly and told to remove onions.
Due to the product actions taken by both companies, the agency added that it believes the risk to the public is very low.