08 Feb 2012
Almost 100 passengers have been taken ill on a Princess Cruise Lines ship after a Norovirus outbreak.
The Ruby Princess was sailing from South Florida but returned to Fort Lauderdale at the weekend after a total of 92 passengers and 13 crew members caught the stomach virus which can lead to stomach pain, vomiting and diarrhoea.
Meanwhile, passengers onboard the Crown Princess, another Princess Cruise Lines ship, have also complained of gastrointestinal problems. The ship docked at Port Everglades in Florida earlier this week after the number of affected passengers had risen sharply.
Princess Cruise Lines spokeswoman Julie Benson said it was not yet clear what had caused the stomach bugs. She added that there did not seem to be a connection between the two incidents.
The two cruise liners’ next departures are likely to be delayed now as all cabin and public areas on the ships will be thoroughly disinfected, Ms Benson said.
Copyright Press Association 2012