Shares of McDonald’s (MCD) are down 10% after the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reported an E. coli outbreak at the company’s restaurants in 10 U.S. states.
The E. coli outbreak is linked to McDonald’s Quarter Pounder hamburgers and has led to 10 people being hospitalized and one death.
The CDC, which is the U.S. public health agency, said 49 cases of E. coli contamination have been reported at McDonald’s restaurants since Sept. 27.
Most infections have occurred in the states of Colorado and Nebraska. One older adult in Colorado died after being infected with E. coli, said the CDC.
E. coli is a bacterium that can cause mild to severe illness if a person eats contaminated food or drinks infected water. Symptoms can include stomach cramps, diarrhea, and vomiting.
The CDC said that the total number of people infected with E. coli at McDonald’s is “likely much higher” than reported, with many people experiencing mild symptoms.
A preliminary investigation has found that onions might be the source of the E. coli outbreak, said the CDC.
Prior to today (Oct. 22), McDonald’s stock had risen 6% this year and was trading at $314.69 U.S. per share.
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