MIAMI – This cruise season comes with the “Ferrari of viruses,” a new antibody-dodging norovirus variant that scientists were tracking last year.
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The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s record of norovirus outbreaks this year so far included 12 cases.
Last year, the CDC reported 16 outbreaks on cruise ships, the highest in over a decade.
This year, the CDC list so far includes ships owned by Royal Caribbean, and Carnival-owned Holland America and Princess Cruises.
According to the CDC, Holland America has dealt with three outbreaks: Two on the Rotterdam in February and March and one on the Volendam in January.
Princess Cruises had two outbreaks on the Coral Princess. The stomach bug also spread on luxury ships owned by Viking, Seaborn, and Silversea, according to this year’s list by the CDC vessel sanitation program inspectors.
CDC TIPS for safe cruising
- Consult a doctor to find out whether it is safe for you to sail.
- Wash your hands often
- During your voyage, report your illness if you’re sick