By IDSE News Staff
An epidemiological and traceback investigation found that fresh, slivered onions were the likely source of an Escherichia coli outbreak that occurred in multiple states.
As of Oct. 30, 2024:
- 90 people in 13 states were made ill; and
- 27 were hospitalized.
There was one death, and one child and one adult developed hemolytic uremic syndrome.
The most recent illness onset was Oct. 16.
All new illnesses occurred before McDonald’s and Taylor Farms, which supplied the onions, took action to remove the onions from food service locations, according to the CDC, which said its quick response mitigated the risk to the public.
Of 42 people interviewed, all reported eating at McDonald’s before their illness started, and most specifically mentioned eating a Quarter Pounder hamburger. No other retail chains or retailers have been identified as a source of illness.
Most people infected with Shiga toxin–producing E. coli experience severe stomach cramps, diarrhea (often bloody) and vomiting. Symptoms usually start three to four days after infection.
