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Health officials are investigating an E. coli outbreak in 10 states involving the McDonald’s franchise. The US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention revealed this information in a statement on Tuesday. According to their report, at least 49 people have fallen ill, with one recorded death. 

Officials have discovered links between the outbreak and McDonald’s, specifically their Quarter-Pound hamburgers. Several sick individuals reportedly claimed to have eaten the sandwich, a very popular item on the McDonald’s menu.

McDonald’s Withdraws Certain Ingredients 

CDC officials reported that the investigation focuses on finding which specific ingredient is causing the illness. For now, however, McDonald’s has withdrawn the ingredients for the burgers, and people will not be able to buy them in certain states. 

McDonald's North America chief supply chain officer Cesar Piña shared an internal release titled “Always Putting Food Safety First.” 

“The initial findings from the investigation indicate that a subset of illnesses may be linked to slivered onions used in the Quarter Pounder and sourced by a single supplier that serves three distribution centers,” Piña said. 

The slivered onions are not the only affected ingredient. McDonald’s has also removed 1/4-lb beef patties from its offerings. However, Piña noted that all other menu items, including beef products such as the Cheeseburger, Hamburger, Big Mac, etc., are still available. The release also affirmed the company’s commitment to food safety and complete cooperation with the CDC. 

Ten Receiving Hospital Care

After news of McDonald’s ties to the E. coli O157 outbreak emerged, the company’s shares fell roughly six percent in after-hours trading. According to the CDC, this particular strain can lead to serious illness. It is most commonly linked to a 1993 incident where four children died after eating undercooked hamburgers from Jack in the Box.

Some common E. coli symptoms are severe stomach pain, diarrhea, and vomiting. They usually appear 3-4 days after exposure to the bacteria. The CDC notes that most individuals get better after 5-7 days without treatment. However, there is some risk of serious kidney complications that will require hospital care. Of the affected 49, 10 are receiving hospital care, including a child diagnosed with hemolytic uremic syndrome, a condition impacting the kidneys.