Cruise Ships Hit by Norovirus Outbreaks

Nearly 200 Passengers Infected on Two Vessels

Nearly 200 passengers on two U.S. cruise ships have fallen ill with norovirus, a highly contagious gastrointestinal illness, according to health officials. The outbreaks occurred on the Ruby Princess and the Tampa-based Carnival Pride.

The Ruby Princess, operated by Princess Cruises, had 303 cases of norovirus among its 2,500 passengers and crew members, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) said Tuesday. The ship has since returned to Port Canaveral, Florida, where passengers disembarked and were transported to a local hospital for treatment.

The Carnival Pride, operated by Carnival Cruise Line, had 191 cases of norovirus among its 3,350 passengers and crew members, according to the CDC. The ship is currently docked in Tampa, Florida, where passengers are being disembarked and screened for illness.

Norovirus is a highly contagious virus that causes vomiting, diarrhea, and stomach cramps. The virus is spread through contact with contaminated food or water, or by touching surfaces that have been contaminated with the virus.

The CDC is investigating the outbreaks and has recommended that passengers who have been on either ship within the past 14 days monitor for symptoms of norovirus. If they develop symptoms, they should see a doctor immediately.

Norovirus outbreaks are common on cruise ships, where people are in close quarters and there is a lot of potential for contamination. The CDC recommends that cruise ship passengers take steps to prevent infection, such as washing their hands frequently, avoiding touching their faces, and eating only cooked foods.