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McDonald’s Quarter Pounders Linked to Deadly E. coli Outbreak

An E. coli outbreak has infected dozens and killed one, with most infected people reporting to have eaten a Quarter Pounder hamburger.

McDonald's has removed the Quarter Pounder hamburger from restaurants in the affected area.
McDonald's has removed the Quarter Pounder hamburger from restaurants in the affected area.
Photo provided by the CDC

Public health officials are investigating a deadly E. coli outbreak across several states, where most people say they had eaten a McDonald’s Quarter Pounder hamburger before becoming sick, according to a CDC notice.

The outbreak has infected 49 people, hospitalized 10, and killed one so far.

Colorado has the highest concentration of E. coli illnesses, followed by Utah, Wyoming, and Nebraska.Colorado has the highest concentration of E. coli illnesses, followed by Utah, Wyoming, and Nebraska.Photo provided by the CDCThe 49 reported E. coli infections span across 10 states, with Colorado having the highest concentration of infections at 26 people, the CDC says. It notes that the outbreak may not be limited to the states with known illnesses, and the number of sick people is likely much higher than 49, as people are likely recovering without medical care or testing for E. coli.

Investigators are still determining which specific ingredient is contaminated, and whether contaminated ingredients went to other restaurants or stores.

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