E. Coli Outbreak Linked to McDonald's Quarter Pounders

 Posted on November 15, 2024 in E. Coli

A recent E. coli outbreak was linked to McDonald's Quarter Pounders. The outbreak hospitalized at least 34 people and caused one confirmed death. The Center for Disease Control later determined that onions produced by Taylor Farms were contaminated with the deadly bacteria. These onions were distributed to McDonald's and other retailers. While McDonalds uses onions on most of its burgers, the contaminated onions were used to produce the slivered onions that are used on Quarter Pounder sandwiches. If you became ill in late October after eating onions, you may have been affected by this outbreak. People who needed medical treatment after acquiring an E. coli infection may be eligible for compensation. An experienced Illinois food poisoning attorney can assess your case and determine whether you may have a claim.

How Do I Know If I Have an E. Coli Infection? 

E. coli infections can be serious. While some people get better in a few days without treatment, others can require hospitalization and intensive medical treatment to survive. Common symptoms of E. coli infection include: 

• Fevers higher than 102 degrees. 
• Diarrhea that lasts for more than three days or becomes bloody. 
• Excessive vomiting that does not allow you to keep liquids down. 
• Symptoms of severe dehydration, like dizziness and lack of urination. 

People experiencing these severe symptoms should go to the emergency room or call 911. E. coli infections can be deadly. Tests can be done in the hospital to determine what type of infection is making you sick.

Where Were the Contaminated Onions Sold? 

Most people sickened by this outbreak reported eating sandwiches containing slivered onions at McDonald's. However, the contaminated Taylor Farms onions were distributed to other food service companies and served at various restaurants. It does not appear that any of the contaminated onions were sold in grocery stores, so if you only ate onions in homemade dishes, you were probably not affected by this outbreak.

What Compensation Might People Affected by This Outbreak Qualify For? 

The type and amount of compensation you qualify for depends on what kind of treatment you needed and whether you will suffer any lasting consequences. A compensation package should cover your medical bills and any wages you lost while you were too sick to work. Those who suffered permanent harm, such as kidney damage that cannot be reversed, may qualify for long-term compensation.

Contact an Illinois Foodborne Illnesses Lawyer 

Newland & Newland, LLP is committed to helping people affected by outbreaks of foodborne illnesses. Our dedicated Illinois food poisoning attorneys will do all we can to get you the most compensation possible. Contact us at 312-981-0409 for a complimentary consultation.