E. coli outbreak at McDonald’s: Can these safety measures keep you safe?

As part of an ongoing investigation by public health agencies in the US, such as the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), the current outbreak of infections by E. coli was linked to public consumption of McDonald’s Quarter. Pounds purchased by consumers in contact with a common variant of E. coli bacteria.

About 50 people have been sickened in the McDonald’s outbreak and one has died, all within the 13 to 88 age group, according to the CDC. Preliminary research suggests that raw, sliced ​​onions served in quarter-pounders are a likely source of the outbreak, according to a CDC statement. As a result, McDonald’s stores in affected states such as Kansas, Utah, Wyoming and parts of Idaho, Iowa and Missouri have temporarily stopped using Quarter Pounder cut onions and beef patties.

McDonald’s Quarter Pounders are linked to the current E. Coli outbreak in the United States. Image credit: AP

What is E. coli?

E. coli is a type of bacteria found in the environment, including water, food, and the intestines of people and animals. There are many types of harmless E. coli, but some types can make people very sick. The McDonald’s outbreak is caused by E. coli O157:H7, which produces a toxin that causes dangerous diarrhea and can lead to kidney failure and other serious problems, according to the CDC.

McDonald’s stores display a sign with their Quarter Pounder burgers that says, “We’ll be back soon.” Image credit: AP

Factors involved in an E. coli outbreak

When a person consumes contaminated food or comes into contact with animals or people who are already infected, there is a high chance that they will become infected with E. coli.

Initially, U.S. public health officials were concerned about beef burgers as a major cause for concern; however, they seem highly unlikely given McD’s protocols and the need to test them at temperatures that would eliminate any possibility of bacteria being present.

Stomach cramps are a consequence of E. Coli infection. Image credit: Pinterest

Common symptoms of E. coli

Most people infected with Shiga toxin-producing E. coli complain of severe stomach cramps, diarrhea (often bloody), and vomiting. Symptoms usually begin 3 to 4 days after swallowing the bacteria. Most people recover without treatment after 5 to 7 days. The chances of developing kidney problems such as hemolytic uremic syndrome (HUS) are also high.

Safe cooking practices can prevent E. coli. Image credit: Pinterest

What practices does the CDC recommend to keep E. coli at bay?

The best way to prevent infections is to keep your hands clean, prepare food safely, and drink clean water.

Follow four easy steps for food safety: clean, separate, cook and chill.

When camping, hiking, or traveling, always use potable water for drinking, cooking, brushing your teeth, or other activities.

Pasteurized milk and juices have undergone a process called pasteurization, known to kill harmful germs, including E. coli. If you buy pastured milk, be sure to locate the word “pasteurized” on the label before purchasing. Also read: Dhanteras 2024: What are the auspicious things that can be bought for Dhanatrayodashi? | World Republic

 

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