McDonald's: Number of Illnesses from E. coli Outbreak in the US Rises

Subheadline:

The number of people who have become ill in an E. coli outbreak linked to McDonald's salads has risen to 44, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).

Outbreak Investigation:

The CDC is investigating the outbreak, which has been linked to romaine lettuce used in McDonald's salads. The lettuce was supplied by Fresh Express, a company based in Salinas, California.

The CDC has advised people to avoid eating romaine lettuce from McDonald's and other restaurants until the outbreak is over.

Symptoms of E. coli Infection:

Symptoms of E. coli infection can include diarrhea, abdominal cramps, nausea, and vomiting. In severe cases, E. coli infection can lead to kidney failure and even death.

Anyone who has eaten romaine lettuce from McDonald's and is experiencing symptoms of E. coli infection should seek medical attention immediately.

McDonald's Response:

McDonald's has removed romaine lettuce from its salads in all of its US restaurants.

The company has also apologized for the outbreak and said it is working with the CDC to investigate the cause of the outbreak and prevent future outbreaks.

Advice for Consumers:

The CDC advises consumers to follow these steps to reduce their risk of E. coli infection:

• Avoid eating romaine lettuce from McDonald's and other restaurants until the outbreak is over.
• Wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water before and after handling food.
• Cook meat thoroughly to kill bacteria.
• Avoid cross-contamination by keeping raw meat separate from other foods.
• Refrigerate food promptly and properly.