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Mystery Illness Diverts Plane

14 passengers suddenly sick shortly after takeoff

By Mary Papenfuss, Newser Staff

Posted Oct 9, 2008 4:21 AM CDT

(Newser) – A United Airlines flight was diverted last night to Chicago's O'Hare airport after 14 passengers suddenly became ill with flu-like symptoms. Four were taken to a local hospital in fair condition. United hadn't served any food on the plane, heading from Boston to Los Angeles, officials said. Several of the passengers were from the same tour group. "I don't remember ever hearing of that many people fall ill here before," said an FAA spokesman.

United Airlines served no food before a mystery illness outbreak on board a Los Angeles bound plane. (Getty Images)

A United Airlines jet was diverted to Chicago last night after a dozen passengers suddenly became ill. (Getty Images)

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14 passengers suddenly sick shortly after takeoff

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Struggling Airlines Pitch Clean(er) Planes

As customers become more valued, so does customer service

To Pinch Pennies, Nonstop Flights ... Stop

United is using smaller plane to fly trans-Atlantic ... and stiff winds spell trouble

Passenger Has to Stand for 7-Hour Flight

... because of obese person next to him

Jets Scrambled After Fliers Brawl Over Reclining Seats

United flight to Ghana forced to turn back

United Flight Hits Turbulence, Injuring 30

At least one person is seriously injured

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Mystery Illness Diverts Plane

14 passengers suddenly sick shortly after takeoff

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OTHER STORIES ON OUR RADAR

health • Chicago • United Airlines • air travel • airline passengers • American College Health Association

MOST POPULAR STORIES

[ By Views ]

[ By Comments ]

More Newser Stories

Struggling Airlines Pitch Clean(er) Planes

As customers become more valued, so does customer service

To Pinch Pennies, Nonstop Flights ... Stop

United is using smaller plane to fly trans-Atlantic ... and stiff winds spell trouble

Passenger Has to Stand for 7-Hour Flight

... because of obese person next to him

Jets Scrambled After Fliers Brawl Over Reclining Seats

United flight to Ghana forced to turn back

United Flight Hits Turbulence, Injuring 30

At least one person is seriously injured

About Us

Site

Newser By Users

Community

Site Maps

Tools

More News

What is Newser?