McDonald’s E. Coli Outbreak Causes Death in U.S.

Why in the news?

An E. coli outbreak linked to McDonald’s burgers in the U.S. has led to one death and 10 hospitalizations, prompting the company to halt serving certain ingredients in multiple states.

McDonald’s E. Coli Outbreak Causes Death in U.S.

About the McDonald’s-Linked E. Coli Outbreak in the U.S.:

  • One person has died, and 10 have been hospitalised in the U.S. following an E. coli infection after eating McDonald’s burgers.
  • McDonald’s has temporarily stopped serving Quarter Pounder patties and grilled onions in several states as the source of contamination is still under investigation.
  • The outbreak is limited to 10 U.S. states and has not spread outside the country.

Coli Infections and Prevalence in India:

  • coli is common worldwide, including in India, where it spreads through contaminated food and water.
  • In 2023, over 500 diarrheal outbreaks were reported in India, with E. coli being a leading cause, accounting for 19% of all cases from tertiary care hospitals.
  • The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) is working to expand microbiology labs to test for pathogens like coli, Salmonella, and Listeria.

What is  Escherichia coli (E. coli) ?

  • Definition: Escherichia coli (E. coli) is a rod-shaped bacterium found in the intestines of humans and animals.
  • Types: While most strains are harmless, some cause illness, including diarrhoea, urinary tract infections (UTIs), respiratory illness, and pneumonia.
  •  Transmission: Pathogenic E. coli spreads through contaminated food, water, or contact with faecal matter from infected individuals or animals.

How E. Coli Causes Illness?

  • Certain strains, like Shiga toxin-producing E. coli (STEC), produce toxins that damage the small intestine, leading to diarrhoea.
  • The most well-known STEC strain is coli O157

Symptoms

  • Common symptoms include diarrhoea (sometimes bloody), abdominal pain, cramping, nausea, and occasionally fever.
  • Severe infections may cause hemolytic uremic syndrome (HUS), leading to kidney failure, especially in children and the elderly.

Treatment

  • Most infections resolve without treatment, but hydration is essential.
  • In severe cases or when complications arise, medical care may be necessary.

Sources Referred:

PIB, The Hindu, Indian Express, Hindustan Times