25 December 2023
Around 700 workers at Airbus Atlantic experienced vomiting and diarrhea after a company dinner, prompting an investigation by French health authorities.
Workers at Airbus Atlantic in France were left feeling ill after attending the company’s Christmas dinner. The event, which catered to 2,600 employees, featured a menu consisting of lobster, foie gras, scallops, and various desserts. Reports indicate that approximately 700 workers fell ill with symptoms of vomiting and diarrhea, leading to an investigation by the French health authorities.
The Investigation by French Health Authorities
The Agence Régionale de Santé (ARS), France’s health agency, is currently investigating the incident. The ARS stated that affected workers exhibited “clinical signs of vomiting and/or diarrhea” and are continuing their investigations. Questionnaires have been sent to all attendees of the dinner as part of the investigation process. Airbus has not yet responded to requests for comment regarding the incident.
Airbus’ Response
Airbus has stated that no employees were seriously ill and that only around 100 workers were affected by the illness. The company assured that all employees were back at work the following Monday and that the health of their employees is their primary concern. Airbus is fully cooperating with the ARS to identify the cause of the illness and prevent similar incidents in the future.
Previous Incidents of Illness at Holiday Parties
This is not the first time that workers have fallen ill after attending their employer’s holiday festivities. In 2016, approximately 70 employees at the New Mexico Department of Health experienced food poisoning after their holiday party. The Airbus dinner took place at the company’s own restaurant in Western France.
Employee Testimonies
According to a worker interviewed by French newspaper Ouest France, the experience of falling ill after the dinner was described as worse than childbirth. The severity of the symptoms experienced by the affected workers has not been specified.
Conclusion:
The investigation into the illness outbreak at Airbus Atlantic’s Christmas dinner is ongoing, with French health authorities working to determine the cause of the illness. Airbus has emphasized that the health and well-being of their employees are their top priority and that they are cooperating fully with the investigation. Incidents of illness at holiday parties serve as a reminder of the importance of food safety and proper handling during such events. As the investigation continues, it remains to be seen what measures will be implemented to prevent similar incidents in the future.
