Lawsuit Filed After Flight Illness
A Surrey woman is taking Qatar Airways to court, claiming she contracted cholera during a September 2023 flight, leading to permanent health complications.
Shafika Mohamed Shakir filed a civil claim in B.C. Supreme Court on Aug. 12. She alleges exposure occurred while returning from Iraq via Doha, Qatar, with a connecting stop in San Francisco on Sept. 7, 2023.
According to her lawsuit, Shakir believes she either consumed contaminated water or was otherwise exposed to cholera while on board.
Understanding the Disease
Cholera, as explained by the Centre for Disease Control, is a potentially deadly illness. It spreads through food or water tainted with cholera bacteria. It is often linked to unsafe drinking water, poor sanitation, and weak hygiene standards.
Injuries and Impact Alleged
Shakir claims the illness left her suffering from vibrio cholera, hypovolemic shock, traveler’s diarrhea, and anxiety. She argues these conditions caused lasting damage.
Her notice of claim lists ongoing pain, permanent physical disability, loss of enjoyment of life, and reduced ability to work. She is also seeking compensation for medical expenses and lost earnings.
Accusations of Negligence
The lawsuit alleges Qatar Airways failed to maintain its aircraft in a reasonably safe condition for passengers. Shakir argues the airline neglected proper inspections, ignored potential hazards, and failed to act on risks that could harm travelers.
Additionally, she claims airline staff were inadequately trained in passenger safety, increasing the chances of avoidable exposure to illness.
Airline Yet to Respond
Court documents confirm these claims remain unproven. As of Sept. 9, Qatar Airways had not filed a legal response. When contacted, the airline only issued an automated email confirming receipt of inquiries.
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