Passengers on a P&O cruise ship off the coast of Belgium have reportedly been “dropping like flies” after experiencing gastrointestinal symptoms and vomiting in restaurants, decks, and outside cabins. Some guests on the P&O Iona, which has the capacity to accommodate 5,000 passengers and 1,800 staff members, are experiencing severe symptoms.
### The Outbreak on P&O Iona
While the exact number of affected passengers remains unclear, fewer than 1 percent of passengers are reportedly suffering from the illness. The captain of the ship, currently on a seven-day trip, announced the outbreak to the guests.
A passenger expressed frustration, stating, “What was also incredulous was the inability to buy or get hold of any medication onboard to help with the symptoms. Not one shop or medical centre onboard could supply guests with gastrointestinal suspension medication or replacement salts/fluid sachets.”
P&O Cruises has assured that guests unable to experience the cruise due to their symptoms will receive a full refund.
### Similar Incidents
This incident follows another recent outbreak where about 90 passengers and crew on a Royal Caribbean cruise in the Gulf of Mexico fell ill with a gastrointestinal illness causing diarrhea and vomiting. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) attributes such outbreaks to norovirus, a highly contagious virus causing vomiting and diarrhea. However, the exact cause of the illness on Radiance of the Seas remains unknown.
### Understanding Norovirus
*What is Norovirus?*
Norovirus is a highly contagious virus that causes vomiting and diarrhea in those infected. Despite being referred to as the ‘stomach flu,’ it is not related to influenza.
*Symptoms of Norovirus*
Common symptoms of norovirus include stomach ache, nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea. Some infected individuals may also experience fever, head, and body pain. Vomiting and diarrhea can lead to dehydration in some patients. These symptoms usually begin to appear within 12-48 hours of exposure.
*Transmission and Risk Factors*
Norovirus spreads easily through direct contact, such as sharing food or utensils with an infected person. It can also be contracted by consuming contaminated food or drink or touching contaminated objects and then putting one’s fingers in their mouth before washing them.
While no particular age group is more susceptible, people with weak immune systems, older adults, and infants are more prone to catching the virus. Additionally, anyone consuming raw shellfish is at risk of contracting norovirus. Once infected, most people recover within one to three days.
*Prevention Measures*
To prevent catching norovirus, it is essential to wash hands regularly and clean contaminated surfaces. Cooking shellfish properly can also reduce the spread of the virus.
See insights and ads
पोस्ट को प्रमोट करें · Promote post
Like
Comment
Share
