The number of people infected with the Escherichia coli bacteria after eating at McDonald’s continues to grow in the United States, now reaching 75 patients, American health authorities announced Friday.
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At least 22 people have been hospitalized and 13 states are now affected, the United States Medicines Agency (FDA) said. Two people developed hemolytic uremic syndrome, which can lead to severe kidney failure.
The number of deaths remains at one.
Of the 42 sick people interviewed, all said they had eaten at McDonald’s, and 39 said they had eaten a hamburger.
The FDA is “using all available tools to confirm whether onions are the source of the outbreak,” it said in a statement.
The investigation continues, but “Taylor Farms, the supplier of slivered onions to the affected McDonald’s restaurants, has initiated a voluntary recall,” the agency said.
This supplier also has other customers, who have been notified, she added.
No cases have been reported to the FDA outside the United States.
Earlier this week, authorities initially reported 49 patients.
A particular hamburger, named Quarter Pounder in the United States, focuses attention.
McDonald’s announced on Tuesday that it was removing slivered onions from restaurants in the affected areas, as well as Quarter Pounder “preventatively”.
At least two complaints have already been filed on behalf of people who have fallen ill, the lawyer defending them, Ron Simon, told AFP. For each, an amount of at least $50,000 is claimed.
Colorado resident Eric Stelly, one of the infected people, went to McDonald’s on Oct. 4 and began developing gastrointestinal symptoms two days later, a statement said. He had to go to the emergency room for treatment.
“The epidemic of E. coli from McDonald’s will be one of the largest food poisoning outbreaks this year,” said Ron Simon, who represents 25 people in total. “Through this and other legal action, we will ensure that all victims are fully compensated.”
E. coli bacteria causes stomach cramps, diarrhea and vomiting, usually lasting three to four days. Most people recover without treatment, but some people may develop complications.
