Written by Satata Karmakar |Published : February 23, 2025 8:47 PM IST
UK Norovirus Outbreak News: Passengers have been "dropping like flies" aboard the P&O cruise ship, owing to a suspected norovirus outbreak. "Passengers onboard the P&O cruise ship are exhibiting symptoms consistent with norovirus infection, including severe vomiting, diarrhea, and stomach cramps. The sudden onset of these symptoms led to widespread alarm among those onboard," sources told the media.
The P&O Iona, which can carry more than 5,000 passengers and 1,800 staff, is currently on a seven-day cruise across northern Europe, visiting Hamburg, Rotterdam and Zeebrugge. The current passenger numbers are unclear.
Responding to queries about the norovirus outbreak on the cruise ship, the P&O officials told the media that there is no immediate threat to anybody on board and that only a few passengers have developed gastrointestinal health issues such as persistent vomiting, and indigestion. "Some passengers traveling in the cruise ship have unfortunately reported gastrointestinal symptoms, however, it is currently affecting fewer than 1% of the passengers on board."
This comes in the backdrop of another news which has come from China -- scientists have issued a warning about another virulent strain of coronavirus HKU5-CoV-2 (found in bats)-- capable of evading the human immune system to attack the respiratory system (just like COVID-19 do). As threats of emerging virus attacks are on the rise, let's understand more about the norovirus and see what symptoms a patient may develop after catching the virus.
Norovirus, also known as the deadly 'vomiting bug', is a highly contagious virus that causes gastroenteritis, an inflammation of the stomach and intestines. It is notorious for its rapid spread, especially in enclosed spaces such as cruise ships, hospitals, and schools.
Norovirus is a group of related viruses that primarily affects the digestive system (stomach and intestines) leading to acute gastroenteritis. According to the studies this virus is capable of infecting people of all ages and is recognized as the leading cause of foodborne illnesses worldwide. Experts have also stated that Norovirus is resilient, capable of surviving on surfaces for weeks, and resistant to many common disinfectants.
Here are the top points about the virus that will help you understand it better:
The virus spreads primarily through: Touching an infected person, via consuming food or beverages handled by someone infected with the virus. It can also spread via infected surfaces -- Touching surfaces or objects contaminated with the virus and then touching one's mouth or face.
As the UK faces a severe Norovirus outbreak -- here are some of the signs and symptoms that one should know -- associated with the deadly virus. Remember, these symptoms usually develop 12 to 48 hours after exposure and last one to three days.
In severe cases, especially among young children, older adults, and those with weakened immune systems, dehydration can occur. Signs of dehydration include decreased urination, dry mouth, dizziness, and lethargy.
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