Dubai: Jack Fowler, star of the reality TV show Love Island, narrowly escaped death following a severe allergic reaction during a flight to Dubai. The 28-year-old was rushed to the hospital after consuming a chicken curry that contained nuts, despite having informed the flight attendants of his allergy.
Fowler shared his harrowing experience on Instagram, criticizing Emirates airline for their negligence. “I’m posting because people should be aware of the severity of food allergies and the complete negligence from @emirates airline,” he wrote.
Fowler detailed how his throat closed up and breathing became extremely difficult after eating the meal. Despite informing the flight attendants of his nut allergy and querying the food, he was assured that the meal was nut-free. It was only when his friend saw the menu that they realized the curry contained cashews.
“This left me with the real possibility of dying on the plane as I knew I needed emergency treatment immediately,” Fowler explained. He used an EpiPen and was given five tanks of oxygen while the pilot sped up the journey to Dubai.
Upon landing, Fowler was taken to a hospital at Dubai airport for further treatment. He expressed his gratitude for the emergency responders but emphasized the need for airlines to take food allergies seriously. “We board your flights and trust the cabin crew to aid us in a safe flight. Take more care,” he urged.
Airline Response and Previous Incident
The BBC has reached out to Emirates airline for comment on the incident. This is not Fowler’s first encounter with an allergic reaction on a flight. In 2023, he reported being served ice cream containing nuts on a Qatar Airways flight. At that time, a spokesperson for Qatar Airways emphasized the importance of passengers with severe food allergies notifying the airline in advance and completing a medical information form.
Recognizing and Treating Anaphylaxis
Anaphylaxis, a severe allergic reaction, can be life-threatening. Signs include swelling in the throat or tongue, wheezing, breathing difficulties, dizziness, tiredness, and confusion. Immediate use of an adrenaline pen, such as an EpiPen, is crucial. The pen should be injected into the outer thigh without delay.
After administering the pen, it is essential to call emergency services, lie the affected person down flat, and raise their legs to help blood flow. If there is no improvement after five minutes and help has not yet arrived, use a second adrenaline pen. Standing up or sitting in a chair should be avoided, as it can drastically lower blood pressure and cause the heart to stop.
Fowler’s experience highlights the critical need for awareness and preparedness in managing food allergies, especially during air travel.