Coral Princess cruise hit by norovirus, 70 report illness during 31-day voyage

Princess Cruises reportedly increased cleaning and disinfection procedures after it became clear an outbreak had occurred. Sick travelers were also asked to provide stool samples for testing.

On November 17, Coral Princess arrived in Los Angeles and all passengers disembarked.

It then promptly embarked on a 16-day journey to Fort Lauderdale.

What is norovirus?

Norovirus is a highly contagious virus and causes gastroenteritis; inflammation of the stomach in the intestines. It is also often called ‘stomach flu’ and leads to symptoms such as vomiting, diarrhea, stomach cramps, nausea, fever and body aches.

Because it only takes ten particles of the virus to feel unwell, it is notorious for causing outbreaks by spreading quickly between people in schools, nursing homes, restaurants and cruise ships.

There is no specific treatment for norovirus and people are generally advised to treat symptoms and prevent dehydration by drinking fluids.

In severe cases, people may need to be admitted to hospital for treatment.

According to the CDC, there have been 11 recorded gastro outbreaks on cruise ships this year, and norovirus caused seven of these outbreaks. Other outbreaks were caused by E. coli on a Silversea cruise ship, salmonella on Royal Caribbean International’s Radiance of the Seas and an unknown source on Royal Caribbean Cruise Line’s Allure of the Seas.

Outbreaks of viruses such as norovirus, E. coli and salmonella are believed to occur on cruise ships due to the large number of people sharing confined spaces and communal dining areas for extended periods of time.

“Travel on cruise ships exposes people to new environments and large numbers of people, including other travelers,” the CDC says on its website.

“This exposure can pose the risk of illness from contaminated food or water or, more commonly, from person-to-person contact.”