McDonald’s has faced significant financial setbacks following an E. coli outbreak linked to its Quarter Pounder burgers in the U.S., which resulted in one death and numerous illnesses. The fast-food giant’s shares tumbled in after-hours trading, plunging more than 9% at one stage.
While a slight recovery followed, with shares down 6.9%, further gains were made when U.S. markets opened on Wednesday, reducing the losses to 4.9%. Despite this, the company’s market value has still taken a major hit, with over $12 billion shaved off its worth, leaving its current market cap at $213.43 billion.
E. coli Outbreak Causes Widespread Concern
The outbreak has triggered widespread concern across the United States, as many customers worry about potential exposure to the dangerous E. coli O157bacteria. According to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), dozens of individuals have fallen ill in at least 10 states, and one person has died.
The exact source of contamination within the Quarter Pounder burgers remains unknown. Experts are particularly concerned about the most vulnerable groups, including the elderly and young children, who are at higher risk of severe illness from E. coli O157.
Health Implications of E. coli O157
Dr. James Gaensbauer, a pediatric infectious disease physician at Mayo Clinic Children’s Center, emphasized the severity of this strain of E. coli. “This strain mainly causes gastrointestinal symptoms, including abdominal cramps, vomiting, and in some cases, bloody diarrhea,” explained Dr. Marcus Pereira, a clinical professor at Columbia University.
Affected States and Reported Cases
The outbreak has impacted 10 states so far, with Colorado experiencing the most cases, followed by Nebraska and Wisconsin. The CDC has released the following breakdown of reported illnesses:
- Colorado: 26 cases
- Nebraska: 9 cases
- Wisconsin: 4 cases
- Iowa: 1 case
- Kansas: 1 case
- Missouri: 1 case
- Montana: 1 case
- Oregon: 1 case
- Utah: 1 case
- Wyoming: 1 case
As investigations continue, health officials are urging the public to remain cautious, especially those who may have consumed Quarter Pounders in the affected regions.
