Norovirus hits Princess cruise ship

07/02/2012

Two Princess Cruise Lines ships will have to be disinfected after dozens of passengers suffered stomach problems, it has been confirmed.

A total of 92 passengers and 13 crew members on board the Ruby Princess have been affected by an outbreak of norovirus, which leads to stomach pain, vomiting and diarrhoea, while a number of travellers on the Crown Princess have reported gastrointestinal problems.

The Crown Princess arrived at Port Everglades on Sunday, while the Ruby Princess was expected to dock in Fort Lauderdale on Monday.

Princess Cruise Lines spokeswoman Julie Benson said the two incidents did not appear to be linked, and the cause of the outbreak was not yet identified.

She added that the ships' next departures are likely to be delayed, as all cabin and public areas had to be disinfected.

Passengers planning to travel with one of the cruise ships are urged to check whether their travel insurance covers norovirus outbreaks before getting on board.

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