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The size of an E. coli epidemic affecting many states and linked to Wendy’s is expanding. On Friday, the CDC reported 37 instances of food poisoning caused by the potentially fatal bacterium. The number has now risen to over 100 cases, and it is still anticipated to climb as state officials continue to monitor the illness.
The CDC’s inquiry is concentrating on the romaine lettuce supplied on Wendy’s burgers and sandwiches, such as Dave’s Singles and Jr. Cheeseburgers, even though the actual cause of the epidemic hasn’t been formally identified by authorities. The business has ceased distributing the suspected lettuce at a few of its locations in the outbreak-affected states of Michigan, Ohio, Pennsylvania, and Indiana.
The business stated in a statement, “We are taking every precaution and withdrawing the sandwich lettuce from our restaurants around that area even though the CDC has not found a particular food yet that is the cause of this epidemic. Since we use different lettuce in our salads, this activity has no impact on it. We are very dedicated to keeping our firm’s high standards for food safety and quality.”
According to the CDC, there is no reason for consumers to avoid eating at Wendy’s or to stop eating romaine lettuce, and there does not seem to be any sign that the lettuce from any other restaurants or grocery stores is linked to this incident.
The New York Post reports that there are already 43 active cases in Michigan alone, with another 55 cases still awaiting resolution.
Additionally, victims in Michigan and Ohio are starting to file claims against Wendy’s. The number of verified instances is anticipated to increase to “over 200 in the next few of days,” according to Bill Marler, a lawyer who represents some of them.
The victims vary in age from 6 to 91, and some have already been admitted to hospitals. No fatalities have been reported.
