2 cruise ships heading to South Florida struck by norovirus; some 200 passengers affected The USA Times

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Saturday, May 19, 2012

2 cruise ships heading to South Florida struck by norovirus; some 200 passengers affected

MIAMI - More than 200 passengers on two cruise ships headed to south Florida have been stricken with a gastrointestinal illness.

Officials with Princess Cruise Lines say two of its ships were struck with a norovirus that can cause vomiting, diarrhea and stomach pain.

The Crown Princess returned from a seven-day cruise Saturday and was docked at Port Everglades. A total of 140 passengers and 18 crew members were affected by the illness.

The Ruby Princess is scheduled to dock Sunday morning. Cruise officials say another 81 passengers and nine crew members were affected on that ship.

Passengers set to embark this weekend have been notified that their departure will be delayed a few hours at least as the ships undergo further disinfection in Port Everglades.