Guests Fall Ill at Philadelphia Hotel
DAVID B. CARUSO
Associated Press
PHILADELPHIA - Health officials are investigating an outbreak of illnesses at a Philadelphia hotel that recently played host to about 200 Republican leaders, including President Bush.
At least 69 guests at the Loews Philadelphia Hotel - all attending a business conference - went to the hospital last week when a mystery bug caused dizziness and vomiting. More fell ill, but did not seek medical attention.
In addition, two people at a GOP retreat to discuss party policy Jan. 29-31 - a member of House Speaker Dennis Hastert's staff and a second staff member's spouse - became ill the day after checking out, an aide to the Illinois Republican said Tuesday. Neither was hospitalized.
Philadelphia Health Department spokesman Jeff Moran said investigators are looking at several possible causes for the outbreak, including food contamination and the Norwalk virus, an illness that has been known to afflict travelers on cruise ships.
Most of the sicknesses did not occur until several days after the Republicans left. Moran said there was nothing to indicate the outbreak was linked to the GOP gathering, and no foul play was suspected. [P6: hmmm…]
hat tip to Jesse at Pandagon