A four-day Royal Caribbean cruise that docked in Miami after traveling to the Bahamas and other locations was spoiled for 66 passengers and two crew members after they fell ill with what is believed to be a food-borne norovirus that caused many to experience vomiting and diarrhea.
The Majesty of the Seas crew ramped up its cleaning schedule after becoming aware of the virus, and thoroughly sanitized the ship once passengers disembarked Friday. according to CNN. The next round of guests, who boarded the same day, were allowed to exchange their trip for another date if they felt uncomfortable.
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Royal Caribbean did not immediately respond to a request for comment.
"Norovirus is a very contagious virus," according to the website of the Center for Disease Control and Prevention. "You can get norovirus from an infected person, contaminated food or water or by touching contaminated surfaces."
The virus affects between 19 million and 21 million people each year, and is the most common cause of food-borne illness in the United States. It is also responsible for 570 to 800 deaths per year, but the affected passengers have reportedly responded well to over-the-counter medication.
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