McDonald’s stock faced a sharp drop after the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reported an E. coli outbreak connected to the popular Quarter Pounder burgers. In pre-market trading, shares fell nearly 7% as the company took immediate action to tackle the crisis.
The outbreak has led to 10 hospitalizations, including one fatality. A total of 49 cases were identified across 10 states, with the most significant clusters in Colorado and Nebraska. Nearly all those sickened had consumed a Quarter Pounder, and one patient suffered from a severe condition known as hemolytic uremic syndrome, which can result in kidney failure. Tragically, an elderly person in Colorado passed away due to complications related to the infection.
Preliminary investigations indicate that the E. coli outbreak may be linked to slivered onions sourced from a specific supplier. These onions were distributed to three separate distribution centers. In response, McDonald’s has directed all restaurants in the affected regions to stop using slivered onions and has initiated a removal process from their supply chain.
