A Colorado teenager is battling kidney failure after contracting a severe E. coli infection linked to McDonald’s Quarter Pounders. Kamberlyn Bowler, 15, who enjoyed the burger with extra pickles, fell ill earlier this month and was later diagnosed with hemolytic uremic syndrome (HUS), a life-threatening complication affecting her kidneys.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has reported 75 E. coli cases in 13 states, with McDonald’s citing slivered onions as the likely source. California-based distributor Taylor Farms has recalled yellow onions from its Colorado facility, which served the chain.
Kamberlyn’s mother, Brittany Randall, expressed relief that her daughter sought treatment quickly, though her recovery remains uncertain. Kamberlyn’s family has engaged a food safety attorney to file a lawsuit against McDonald’s. McDonald’s USA President Joe Erlinger apologized publicly, committing to investigating the outbreak and restoring customer trust.
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