Norovirus Outbreaks on Two Cruise Ships Investigated by CDC

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) is currently investigating two separate norovirus outbreaks on cruise ships linked to the United States. The outbreaks have affected a total of 161 passengers and crew members on Princess Cruises’ Sapphire Princess and Royal Caribbean International’s Radiance of the Seas.

Approximately 67 passengers and two crew members on the Radiance of the Seas reported falling ill during their voyage from Tampa to Los Angeles between April 8 and 22. On the Sapphire Princess, 94 passengers and 20 crew members reported similar symptoms while on their voyage from Los Angeles to the South Pacific, which began on April 5 and is scheduled to conclude on May 7.

The CDC states on its website that norovirus is a highly contagious virus that causes vomiting and diarrhea. Anyone can become infected and sick with norovirus, which is sometimes referred to as the ‘stomach flu’ or ‘stomach bug’. However, norovirus illness is not related to the flu, which is caused by the influenza virus. One of the biggest health risks associated with norovirus infection is dehydration; the CDC recommends drinking plenty of fluids to aid recovery.

The CDC’s Vessel Sanitation Program requires cruise lines to report and document cases of illness on their ships to facilitate coordinated responses in case of an emergency.

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