American Airlines furlough worries Chicago flight attendant who contracted coronavirus with existing heart condition

CHICAGO (WLS) -- A furloughed American Airlines flight attendant from Chicago has learned she's tested positive for COVID-19.

It's a double blow for Erica Carmine, who no longer has health insurance, and already suffers from a heart disorder.

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Carmine said she initially took a leave from her job, in an effort to stay safe from the virus.

"I ended up giving up my apartment because I took that leave; I could no longer afford my home," Carmine said. "I had to move out of state. I ended up ... losing my job, and now only five days after losing my healthcare benefits I have a positive COVID test."

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American Airlines furloughed more than 8,000 flight attendants last month as a result of financial strain during the pandemic.