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Holland America Line ship hit by gastro bug outbreak
Dozens of people have been sickened by a gastro bug on Holland America’s Zaandam during its current Alaska voyage.
The US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention report that 58 passengers and 15 crew members have contracted norovirus-like symptoms which include vomiting and diarrhea.
The cruise line confirmed a gastrointestinal outbreak and has initiated intensive cleaning and disinfection, which is being monitored by the CDC Vessel Sanitation Program.
Initial testing using norovirus rapid test kits were negative for the virus, the CDC said, but additional testing will take place at the agency’s headquarters.
HAL noted a number of passengers began feeling ill last Monday who were then isolated in their cabins.
The cruise line issued a statement saying: "The safety and well-being of our guests and crew is our top priority."
This is the sixth norovirus infected cruise this year, according to CDC data. The figure is generally in line with the numbers in previous years.
It is also the second in Alaska after 36 people on cruise ship Silver Shadow fell ill last month.
The ship has several more scheduled calls including Anchorage and Sitka before passengers disembark at Seattle on July 2.
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