LLCHD Reports Second Case of E. coli Tied to National Outbreak

LLCHD Reports Second Case of E. coli Tied to National Outbreak

Published on October 25, 2024

The Lincoln-Lancaster County Health Department (LLCHD) today reported a second case of E. coli in Lancaster County that is part of the national outbreak linked to McDonald's. The person is in their 30s and was not hospitalized.

"We're working closely with our state and federal partners on the investigation and continue to monitor the situation closely for additional cases," said Pat Lopez, Health Director. "If people are experiencing E. coli symptoms after eating at McDonald's, we urge them to contact their health care provider or call the Health Department at 402-441-8053."

Symptoms of E. coli can include:

• Severe stomach cramps
• Diarrhea (often bloody) and vomiting
• A fever higher than 102 degrees.

Symptoms usually start three to four days after eating contaminated food. Some infections can be severe and lead to life-threatening conditions such as kidney failure.

Currently 11 cases related to the outbreak have been reported in Nebraska, including the two in Lancaster County. There are a total of 75 cases in 13 states.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA), and state and local partners are working to pinpoint the exact source of the outbreak. Investigators continue to focus on two ingredients - fresh slivered onions, and fresh beef patties, according to the CDC.

Federal health officials say McDonald's has removed these items from stores in affected states.

Taylor Farms, the supplier of slivered onions for the affected McDonald's locations, initiated a yellow onion recall. Recalled yellow onions were sold to additional food service customers, according to the FDA. Stores were contacted directly and asked to remove products.

Federal health officials say due to product actions taken by both companies, they believe the risk to the public is very low.

For more information about E. coli, visit the CDC's website: https://www.cdc.gov/ecoli/about/index.html

For the latest on the outbreak and the investigation, visit:

• Centers for Disease Control and Prevention - https://www.cdc.gov/ecoli/outbreaks/e-coli-O157.html
• U.S. Food and Drug Administration - https://www.fda.gov/food/outbreaks-foodborne-illness/outbreak-investigation-e-coli-o157h7-mcdonalds-quarter-pounders-october-2024