Norovirus Sickens 159 on Cruise Ship Docked in Virginia

Ship headed for Baltimore

Passengers on a cruise ship docked in Virginia have been sickened with norovirus.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention said the Balmoral, which is docked Friday in Norfolk, reports 159 crew and passengers have reported being sick. The ship operated by Fred. Olsen Cruise Lines left Britain April 16.

A company spokeswoman, Ruth Burton, said  conditions have improved and there are currently just seven guests in isolation. There are more than 1,400 passengers and crew aboard.

The CDC said it plans to have staff to evaluate the ship when it arrives in Baltimore on Saturday or Sunday.

Norovirus can be transmitted from contaminated food or water or an infected person. The gastrointestinal illness typically lasts one to three days and can cause stomach pain, nausea, diarrhea and vomiting.

Copyright AP - Associated Press
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