Norovirus Outbreak Hits Celebrity Mercury Cruise Ship
Over 400 Passengers Fall Ill
Cruise Line Taking Additional Precautions
More than 400 passengers on the Celebrity Mercury cruise ship have come down with the norovirus, a highly contagious stomach bug that can cause vomiting, diarrhea, and abdominal pain. The outbreak began on the ship's most recent cruise, which departed from Charleston, South Carolina, on February 24th. As of Monday, March 2nd, 152 passengers had become ill. The cruise line is taking additional precautions to prevent the spread of the virus, including increasing cleaning and disinfection protocols and providing hand sanitizer to passengers.
The norovirus is a common cause of gastrointestinal illness worldwide. It is spread through contact with infected people or by consuming contaminated food or water. Symptoms of the virus typically develop within 12 to 48 hours after exposure and can last for several days. There is no specific treatment for the norovirus, but supportive care can help to relieve symptoms.
The outbreak on the Celebrity Mercury is the latest in a series of norovirus outbreaks on cruise ships in recent months. In January, a norovirus outbreak on the Royal Caribbean ship Oasis of the Seas sickened more than 300 passengers. In December, a norovirus outbreak on the Carnival Magic ship sickened more than 200 passengers.
The cruise industry has been working to improve its sanitation and hygiene practices in an effort to prevent the spread of norovirus on ships. However, the virus is highly contagious and can be difficult to contain. Passengers who are considering going on a cruise should be aware of the risk of norovirus and take precautions to protect themselves, such as washing their hands frequently and avoiding contact with anyone who is sick.
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