Colorado E. Coli Outbreak Linked to McDonald’s Quarter Pounders

On October 22, 2024, the Center for Disease Control and Prevention (“CDC”) issued a Food Safety Alert for a “fast moving” Escherichia Coli (“E. Coli”) outbreak linked to McDonald’s quarter pounder hamburgers. Multiple public health agencies are investigating the connection between McDonald’s across 10 states, including Colorado. The CDC has confirmed 49 cases of E. Coli nationwide. Of the 49 cases nationwide, 26 reported cases are from Colorado.
One Colorado resident has died and ten others have been hospitalized, including a child who developed hemolytic uremic syndrome, or HUS, a severe condition that can lead to kidney failure by destroying the small vessels inside the kidneys. The Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment stated the person who died was “older” with underlying health conditions.
While the numbers are clearly significant, the CDC warns the true number of infected people in the outbreak is likely much higher than the number reported because many people recover without medical treatment after 5 to 7 days. Additionally, it usually takes 3 to 4 weeks to determine if a sick person is part of an outbreak.
The CDC has determined: “most people in this outbreak are reporting eating the Quarter Pounder hamburger at McDonald’s before becoming sick. It is not yet known which specific food ingredient is contaminated. McDonald’s is collaborating with investigation partners to determine what food ingredient in Quarter Pounders is making people sick. McDonald’s stopped using fresh slivered onions and quarter pound beef patties in several states while the investigation is ongoing to identify the ingredients causing illness. Quarter pound beef patties are only used on Quarter Pounders. Fresh slivered onions are primarily used on Quarter Pounder hamburgers and not other menu items.”
What are E. Coli Symptoms?
E. coli infection can lead to a range of gastrointestinal symptoms, and in severe cases, life-threatening complications. The bacterium, commonly found in undercooked beef, unpasteurized milk, or produce contaminated by fecal matter, has been the source of several high-profile outbreaks in recent years. Understanding the symptoms and timeline for when they appear after exposure is key to recognizing and managing the infection early. The primary symptoms of an E. coli infection typically include:
- Severe stomach cramps: Painful cramping in the lower abdomen is often one of the earliest signs.
- Diarrhea: This may start mild but can progress to watery and often bloody diarrhea, indicating a more severe form of infection.
- Nausea and vomiting: Some individuals experience nausea or vomiting along with diarrhea, further complicating fluid balance in the body.
- Fever: While not common in all cases, a low-grade fever may accompany these symptoms.
- Fatigue: Dehydration and the body’s immune response can result in general tiredness and malaise.
If you recently ate a McDonald’s Quarter Pounder and are experiencing these symptoms, contact a health care provider and local public health agency.
The onset of symptoms after ingesting contaminated food varies but generally occurs within one to ten days. The average incubation period is typically three to four days after exposure. This variation in the onset is due to factors such as the strain of E. coli and the quantity of bacteria ingested. Most people start to notice the early signs, such as mild abdominal discomfort or loose stools, within three to five days. However, more serious symptoms like bloody diarrhea often develop later in the course of the infection.
In most cases, symptoms resolve within five to seven days; however, severe infections can lead to a complication known as hemolytic uremic syndrome (HUS), a condition that affects the kidneys and may lead to kidney failure, particularly in young children, the elderly, and immunocompromised individuals.
Is E. Coli Contagious?
E. coli can be contagious in certain circumstances. While it is primarily transmitted through the consumption of contaminated food or water, it can also spread from person to person, especially in environments where hygiene practices are not well maintained.
Here are the main ways E. coli can be contagious:
- Person-to-person contact: E. coli can spread if an infected person does not wash their hands properly after using the bathroom and then touches surfaces, food, or directly interacts with others. This is especially common in households, childcare centers, and healthcare settings.
- Fecal-oral transmission: E. coli bacteria live in the intestines and can be present in an infected person’s stool. If someone comes into contact with contaminated fecal matter and inadvertently ingests it (e.g., through improper hand hygiene or consuming contaminated food), they can become infected.
- Food preparation: If a person infected with E. coli handles food without properly washing their hands, they can spread the bacteria to others who consume the food.
To reduce the risk of spreading E. coli, the CDC notes it is crucial to practice good hygiene, including regular hand washing with soap and water, particularly after using the bathroom, changing diapers, or preparing food. It is also important to avoid preparing food for others if you are experiencing symptoms like diarrhea, as this increases the risk of transmission.
Who is Most at Risk?
Certain groups of people are at a higher risk of becoming infected with E. coli and experiencing more severe symptoms. These include:
- Young children: Infants and children under five are especially vulnerable because their immune systems are not fully developed. They are also more prone to severe complications, such as hemolytic uremic syndrome (HUS), which can cause kidney failure.
- Older adults: The immune system weakens with age, making older adults more susceptible to infections like E. coli and their potential complications.
- People with weakened immune systems: Individuals with compromised immune systems, such as those undergoing chemotherapy, living with HIV/AIDS, or taking immunosuppressive drugs, are more likely to get infected and experience severe outcomes.
- Pregnant women: Although pregnant women are not more likely to contract E. coli, the infection can be more dangerous due to potential risks to both the mother and the fetus.
- Individuals in group settings: People who live or work in environments where close contact is common, such as nursing homes, childcare centers, and prisons, are at higher risk of person-to-person transmission of E. coli.
- People who travel to areas with poor sanitation: Travelers to developing countries with limited access to clean water and sanitation facilities may be at risk of contracting E. coli from contaminated food or water.
If you or someone you know is experiencing severe symptoms, especially bloody diarrhea or prolonged vomiting, it’s crucial to seek medical attention immediately. Antibiotics are typically not recommended for treating E. coli infections, as they may increase the risk of HUS in some strains. Instead, treatment focuses on staying hydrated and managing symptoms.
What McDonald’s are Linked to the E. Coli Outbreak?
While there has not been an official announcement regarding the location of the McDonald’s linked to the E. Coli outbreak, the reddit account “r/Denver” posted a topic titled “PSA: E Coli Outbreak linked to McDonalds in Colorado and 10 other states.” According to one Reddit user, a family of four became sick after eating at the McDonald’s located at 1444 S. Havana Street, Aurora CO 80012.
Can I Sue McDonald’s if I Contracted E. Coli?
It is possible for a victim of food poisoning to sue the company that manufactures the contaminated food or the restaurant that served it. Both entities may be held liable for failure to exercise reasonable care in preparing and storing food. They may also be found strictly liable for a defective food product. For more information on Foodborne Illness Lawyers, check out our blog.
Importantly, if you believe you contracted E. Coli after eating at a Colorado McDonald’s, it is also very important for you to save the receipt from your purchase. Without a receipt, it will be nearly impossible to pursue legal action against McDonald’s.
If you have been affected by the recent E. Coli outbreak in Colorado, it is important to contact our Colorado food poisoning lawyers to investigate. If you have questions about whether you have a legal cause of action against the manufacturer or restaurant that caused your E. Coli infection, contact the Colorado food poisoning lawyers at Bowman Law LLC, today. There is no charge for the consultation.