United Airlines employees fall ill in Colorado after eating company-provided Christmas dinner

Some United Airlines employees were sick after the company gave them a meal on Christmas Day. It happened at Denver International Airport in the crew quarters and appears to be food poisoning.

The incident is a reminder that what you eat at celebrations this time of year can make you sick if you’re not careful. Dr. Heather Young, director of infection prevention at Denver Health, says food poisoning is a regular occurrence.

Foodborne outbreaks are therefore common throughout the United States. “Millions of people experience food poisoning symptoms year-round,” Young said.

But once you have it, it’s no fun. Especially since the symptoms can be painful.

“Stomach cramps or stomach pain. Nausea, vomiting and diarrhea,” explains Young.

Some United employees say they have been dealing with this for a few days. The airline purchased food for employees in Colorado at the airport on Wednesday, which apparently resulted in food poisoning.

In a statement, United said:

“United is monitoring reports from some employees of gastrointestinal distress following holiday meals served to employees in Denver on Wednesday, and we are in contact with health authorities. There was no impact on our operations.”

AFA Council 9, the union that represents United Employees in Denver, says:

“Flight attendants and pilots are often separated from their own families during the holidays to bring others together. This incident in Denver, intended to recognize crews working over the holidays, is a stark reminder that crews work 24 hours a day, 365 days a year by attending a company-provided holiday meal in airport staff quarters became a shared experience in which dozens of crew members fell ill. Our union is working with the company to ensure crew members are provided the care they need to recover. We have confirmed that no one will be penalized for We welcome all loving and healing thoughts for those affected by their inability to fly or otherwise being penalized.

In a time like this when food is important, Young says health starts with food preparation.

“Anyone preparing food should ensure they wash their hands before handling food. Second, you want to make sure your raw meat stays separate from other foods that aren’t intended to be cooked. said Young.

She also says not to leave food out for too long once you’re done preparing it.

“According to the CDC, food should not be left on the counter for more than about an hour or two,” Young said.

She says most food poisoning clears up within a few days, but if you’re immunocompromised, notice signs of dehydration or just aren’t feeling better, seek medical help.

“This is the time to see your doctor,” Young said.