What is the Crown Princess norovirus?

Crown Princess norovirus outbreaks occurred twice in 2014 when this gastrointestinal virus spread to over 200 passengers aboard the Crown Princess cruise ship. This virus causes inflammation of the stomach or intestines. Its symptoms include stomach pain, nausea and diarrhea.

When an infected person touches something, another person that touches the same thing is prone to infection. While norovirus is not limited to cruise ships, a ship's large number of railings and door handles allow the virus spread quickly. The buffet-style food service common on cruise ships also contributes to these outbreaks, since the virus is more likely to taint food left out for several hours.