QSR: Health Officials Investigate Illnesses Linked to McDonald's Salads

McDonald’s salads are linked to an outbreak in cyclosporiasis in Illinois and Iowa, according to a report in QSR .

Consumers might have started getting infected as early as May 2018. The most common symptom of cyclosporiasis is frequent bouts of watery diarrhea, according to an email from the Illinois Department of Public Health to 1851 Franchise. Other symptoms include appetite and weight loss, fatigue, and low-grade fever. Vomiting is a less-common symptom.

“Of the approximately 90 cases of cyclosporiasis reported in counties across Illinois with people becoming ill starting in mid-May, about one-fourth of Illinois cases reported eating salads from McDonald’s in the days before they became ill,” IDPH spokeswoman Melaney Arnold wrote. “Although a link has been made to salads sold in McDonald’s restaurants in some Illinois cases, public health officials continue to investigate other sources. Those investigations include produce suppliers, processing plants, and distributors.”

Consumers who suspect infection should reach out immediately to their health providers.

“Individuals who ate a salad from McDonald’s since mid-May and developed diarrhea and fatigue should contact a health care provider about testing and treatment,” Arnold wrote. “Consulting with a health care provider and/or the local health department is recommended.”