Amid fears of hantavirus, norovirus raises concerns; 100 people fall ill on Caribbean cruise ship:
More than 100 people have fallen ill due to an outbreak of norovirus on the luxury cruise ship Caribbean Princess. According to the US health agency, the Centers for Disease Control (CDC), 102 passengers and 13 crew members have fallen ill on the ship, bringing the total number of people experiencing infection-like symptoms to 115. Those affected have experienced vomiting and diarrhea, which are common symptoms of norovirus.
This case comes just days after a hantavirus outbreak on another cruise ship claimed three lives. This new outbreak has raised concerns. The Caribbean Princess departed from Florida, USA, on April 28th. On its 13-day voyage, the ship carried 3,116 passengers and 1,131 crew members.
The number of patients increased on May 7.
The ship traveled to several destinations, including the Bahamas, Aruba, Curaçao, Bonaire, St. Martin, Puerto Rico, the Dominican Republic, and Nassau. By May 7, the number of sick people on board had exceeded the prescribed limit. The ship subsequently notified the CDC. CDC regulations require public notification if more than 3% of the crew becomes ill. Cruise company Princess Cruises stated that the illness was a mild stomach illness. The company stated that not everyone became ill at the same time, and many passengers have since recovered.
Following the outbreak, cleaning and sanitization measures were increased on the ship. Every part of the ship was cleaned frequently to prevent the spread of the virus. The company stated that the ship would undergo a thorough cleaning and disinfection upon arriving at Port Canaveral on May 11. Passenger John Van Milligan said the atmosphere remained normal, with people watching shows, eating meals, and the cruise continuing. He said the cruise staff had taken necessary precautions to prevent infection.
What is norovirus?
Norovirus is a rapidly spreading virus that causes an infection in the stomach and intestines. It can cause vomiting, diarrhea, stomach pain, nausea, mild fever, and body aches. The virus spreads through contaminated food and water, dirty surfaces, and contact with infected people. It can spread rapidly in enclosed spaces like cruise ships.
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