Over 125 Sickened by Norovirus on Cruise Ship in San Francisco

A norovirus outbreak has sickened more than 125 people on the cruise ship Ruby Princess, which is currently docked in San Francisco. The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reported that 102 passengers and 23 crew members were affected during the ship's 20-day round trip from San Francisco to Canada and Alaska. The Ruby Princess was carrying 3,032 passengers and a crew of 1,144. Upon its return to San Francisco on Thursday, the vessel was cleaned and disinfected before departing for its next voyage later the same day, according to Princess Cruises. Norovirus is highly contagious and often spreads through contaminated food or surfaces, particularly in crowded environments. While symptoms like sudden vomiting, diarrhea, and stomach pain typically last up to three days, the CDC notes the illness can be severe for individuals with underlying health issues, young children, and the elderly.