McDonald’s: Dozens were infected and one died from an outbreak of “E.coli” bacteria

Widespread intestinal poisoning in the US: The Center for Disease Control in the US issued a food safety warning this week following a widespread infection with E. coli bacteria among diners at the American McDonald’s chain. Dozens were infected, one died and the hypothesis is that the onion transmitted the infection.

According to reports, at least 49 people from ten different countries were infected, including an elderly person who died. Ten of them hospitalized a child who developed a serious complication called “hemolytic uremic syndrome”, a complication that may develop as a result of infection with a bacterium.

The largest cluster of cases was discovered in Colorado and Nebraska, where most of the infected reported eating the McDonald’s “McRoyal” sandwich. The Centers for Disease Control and the FDA reported that the investigation is ongoing and in the meantime it has been found that the source of the contamination is likely related to the onion slices that were used in these sandwiches.

McDonald’s announced that following the investigation, it removed the onions and meat patties used by the “McRoyal” in several countries until the investigation is completed. The removal includes Colorado, Kansas, Utah, Wyoming and parts of Idaho, Iowa, Missouri, Montana, Nebraska, Nevada, New Mexico and Oklahoma. At the same time, the investigation is still examining whether the outbreak is limited to these countries or whether it is possible that it is wider.

In a statement issued by the company, it was stated that the initial findings of the investigation link the onions to one source that supplies the product to three distribution centers. McDonald’s expressed full commitment to the safety of customers and said that it will continue to cooperate with the authorities to make sure that the event ends without further casualties.

Escherichia coli is a fecal bacterium found in the digestive system of humans and animals, but there are certain strains that can cause serious infections in the digestive system. The infection occurs when a bacterium enters the body through contaminated food, contaminated water, or direct contact with an infected person or animal.Symptoms include severe abdominal pain, diarrhea (sometimes bloody), fever and vomiting. Most people recover within about a week without special treatment, but in some cases, and especially in children and the elderly, serious complications such as kidney failure may develop, requiring urgent hospitalization. The U.S. Centers for Disease Control recommended that anyone who experiences symptoms after eating a McRoyal sandwich seek medical attention immediately and inform medical staff about the food consumption.

ד״ר Bela Azariaa family medicine specialist at Assuta Medical Centers, stated: “About 5 to 10 percent of people who are diagnosed with an E. coli infection develop more serious complications, such as hemolytic uremic syndrome, or HUS. This syndrome develops about seven days after the first appearance of the symptoms, precisely when the diarrhea improves.

Clues that someone is developing HUS include decreased frequency of urination, feeling very tired, and loss of pink color in the cheeks and inside the lower eyelids. People with HUS need to be hospitalized because their kidneys may stop working and they may develop other serious problems. Most people with HUS recover within a few weeks, but some can suffer permanent damage or death.”

Serious E. coli symptoms to look out for and see a doctor include: Diarrhea for more than three days, bloody diarrhea, fever higher than 39, multiple vomiting and inability to drink without vomiting. Signs of dehydration, such as a significant lack of urination, headaches and dry mouth and throat.