125 passengers and crew hit with highly contagious stomach virus on cruise

Norovirus Outbreak Aboard Ruby Princess Cruise Ship in San Francisco

SAN FRANCISCO — On Thursday, federal health officials reported that more than 120 passengers and crew members on the Princess Cruises ship, Ruby Princess, were infected with a stomach virus during their voyage that docked in San Francisco. The ship was on a 20-day round trip journey from San Francisco to Canada and Alaska when 102 passengers and 23 crew members were stricken by norovirus, according to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).

Norovirus is a highly contagious virus that is often spread through food or surfaces, especially in crowded conditions. While it is a short-lived illness for many people, it can be dangerous for individuals with underlying health conditions, young children, and the elderly. Symptoms of norovirus include sudden onset of vomiting, diarrhea, and stomach pain that can last up to three days, as per the CDC.

The outbreak on the Ruby Princess, which departed on June 12, was reported to the CDC on Saturday. Not all infected individuals were sick at the same time or when the ship arrived or departed from port. The voyage had a total of 3,032 passengers and 1,144 crew members onboard, as stated by the CDC.

In response to the outbreak, Princess Cruises promptly implemented enhanced sanitation protocols across the ship. The company assured that the Ruby Princess will undergo thorough cleaning and disinfection before embarking on its next trip later on Thursday.

According to health officials, there have been seven illness outbreaks reported on cruise ships in the CDC’s jurisdiction this year, primarily stemming from norovirus. Most norovirus outbreaks occur when infected individuals spread the virus through direct contact, such as sharing food or utensils. Outbreaks can also be transmitted through contaminated food, water, or surfaces.

Preventing norovirus infection involves frequent handwashing, especially after using the bathroom or before eating and drinking. It is recommended to use soap and water, scrubbing for at least 20 seconds. Hand sanitizer alone is not as effective against norovirus, as advised by the CDC.