Emirates Airbus A380 quarantined at New York JFK after about 10 passengers fell ill

An Emirates Airbus A380 has been quarantined today (5 September) at New York JFK Airport after about 10 passengers became ill with fever (over 100 degrees Fahrenheit / around 38 degrees Celsius). Passengers have also reportedly been coughing. The aircraft just landed from Dubai as EK203 and awaited CDC officials (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention).

In a statement, Emirates Airlines responded to the incident: “We can confirm that about 10 passengers on board flight EK203 from Dubai to New York were taken ill. On arrival at JFK, as a precaution, they were immediately checked by local health authorities and those needing medical attention will be attended to. All other passengers will be disembarking shortly. The safety and care of our customers is always our first priority and will not be compromised.”

Note: in the first press reports it was mentioned that about 100 passengers fell ill, that number has now been reduced to 10 passengers.

Update: the sick passengers were all diagnosed with the flu.