The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) is investigating two separate cases of Norovirus outbreaks aboard two American cruise ships. Reports have indicated that passengers are experiencing symptoms of the virus, with approximately 67 out of 1,993 passengers on the "Radiance of the Seas" reporting fatigue, vomiting, and diarrhea. This occurred during its journey from Tampa to Los Angeles between April 8 and April 22, with two additional crew members also reporting illness, according to Fox News.
Meanwhile, about 94 out of 2,532 passengers on the "Sapphire Princess" reported similar symptoms during its journey from Los Angeles to the South Pacific, which began on April 5 and is scheduled to end on May 7. Additionally, 20 crew members from a total of 1,066 reported experiencing symptoms as well.
It is noted that Norovirus is highly contagious and typically spreads through contaminated food or water, or contaminated surfaces. It can also spread through close contact with an infected person. Symptoms include sudden onset of severe vomiting and diarrhea. Norovirus is sometimes referred to as "stomach flu" or "stomach bug," and one of the major health risks associated with this virus is dehydration. Consequently, doctors recommend that those infected drink plenty of fluids to aid in recovery.
