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15 new cases, 5 hospitalizations

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The U.S. Centers for Disease Control on Wednesday identified 15 new cases of E. coli poisoning linked to onions in Quarter Pounders sold at the fast food chain.

The cases came before McDonald's stopped using onions from distributor Taylor Farms' plant in Colorado Springs, the CDC said.

The agency also announced five new hospitalizations attributed to the outbreak, bringing the total number of hospitalizations to 27 and the total number of cases to 90. One person died in Colorado as a result of the outbreak

The fast food giant apologized for the outburst in an investor meeting on Tuesday. CEO Chris Kempczinski said he was “relieved that the situation appears to be contained and I remain confident that eating at McDonald's is safe.”

At least three lawsuits have been filed against McDonald's in connection with the outbreak, with attorneys for those who have already filed expecting more lawsuits.

The company announced Sunday that Quarter Pounders would return within the week.

McDonald's E. coli case map

What is E. coli? What are the symptoms?

Most Escherichia coli (E. coli) bacteria live harmlessly in the intestines of humans and animals. However, according to the CDC, some can cause mild to life-threatening gastrointestinal illness if consumed.

The types of E. coli that can cause diarrhea usually spread through food or water contaminated with feces. For example, grocery handlers can spread infections if they do not practice proper handwashing hygiene after using the restroom. Animals such as cattle can also transmit E. coli to food and crops.

Symptoms of an E. coli infection include severe stomach cramps, diarrhea (often bloody), and vomiting, according to the CDC.

The agency recommended seeking immediate medical attention if a McDonald's customer experiences:

  • Diarrhea and fever over 38°C
    • Diarrhea for more than 3 days that is not improving
    • Bloody diarrhea
  • Vomiting so much that you can't keep your fluids down
  • Signs of dehydration, such as:
    • I don't urinate much
    • Dry mouth and throat
    • Feeling dizzy when standing up

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