Cruise Industry Sees First Possible Case of Coronavirus Aboard Cruise Ship

As coronavirus continues to spread across China, authorities are increasingly worried that it may spread from the country and establish itself across the world. Cruise companies such as Royal Caribbean, MSC, and Costa have canceled cruises sailing out of Shanghai, while Holland America has altered the itinerary of an upcoming cruise. Though the precautions may have helped prevent the spread of the virus, the first cases of coronavirus aboard a cruise ship may have already been identified.

NZHerald.co.nz reports that the first possible case of coronavirus was identified on Tuesday aboard the Costa Venezia after it docked in Shanghai. As we blogged yesterday, authorities screened over 6,000 people, including passengers and crew, who arrived at Shenzen aboard the Venezia. Approximately 150 people were quarantined. 

In a statement, Costa Cruises said “increased health and safety measures as a matter of caution. The company adopts a specific protocol to help prevent the introduction and/or spread of any infectious diseases,” NZHerald.co.nz reports.

In addition to Holland America, other cruise companies have also declined to cancel sailings, including Silversea, whose ship Spirit will call on Hong Kong on February 15th, and Regent Seven Seas, whose ship Voyage will also continue to call on Hong Kong.