The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention are currently investigating two separate outbreaks of Norovirus linked to US cruise ships. The outbreaks are associated with Princess Cruises’ Sapphire Princess and Royal Caribbean International’s Radiance of the Seas. The CDC’s Vessel Sanitation Program is monitoring the highly contagious outbreaks following reports of passengers becoming ill. On the Radiance of the Seas, approximately 67 out of 1,993 passengers and two crew members reported falling ill during a voyage from Tampa to Los Angeles. Similarly, on the Sapphire Princess, about 94 out of 2,532 passengers and 20 crew members reported symptoms during a voyage from Los Angeles into the South Pacific.
The predominant symptoms reported among those affected by the Norovirus on both cruise ships were diarrhea and vomiting. Norovirus is a highly contagious virus that affects anyone, causing symptoms often described as the “stomach flu” or “stomach bug.” However, it is important to note that Norovirus is not related to the seasonal flu caused by the influenza virus. One of the main health risks associated with Norovirus infection is dehydration. The CDC recommends that individuals infected with Norovirus drink plenty of liquids to help aid in their recovery.
The Vessel Sanitation Program run by the CDC requires cruise lines to report and document cases of illness on their ships in order to facilitate coordinated responses in the event of an emergency. Fox Business reached out to both Princess Cruises and Royal Caribbean International for comment on the situation, but did not receive a response. It is crucial for cruise lines to take swift action to contain and prevent the spread of Norovirus on their ships, as the virus can easily affect a large number of individuals in a confined space.
The CDC’s investigations into the Norovirus outbreaks on the Sapphire Princess and Radiance of the Seas highlight the importance of proper sanitation and health protocols on cruise ships. These outbreaks serve as a reminder of the risks associated with contagious illnesses spreading rapidly among passengers and crew members on board. The cruise industry must take steps to effectively address and prevent outbreaks of Norovirus and other illnesses to ensure the safety and well-being of those on board their ships.
Passengers and crew members who have been affected by the Norovirus outbreaks on the Sapphire Princess and Radiance of the Seas may experience discomfort and inconvenience due to the symptoms of the virus. By following the recommendations of the CDC and seeking appropriate medical attention and care, those affected can recover from the illness more quickly and reduce the risk of complications such as dehydration. It is essential for individuals experiencing symptoms of Norovirus to take precautions to prevent further spread of the virus to others and to follow proper hygiene practices to minimize the risk of infection.
