Caution Urged After Virus Outbreaks on Alaska Ships

ANCHORAGE--State and federal epidemiologists are urging cruise companies to aggressively disinfect vessels after viral outbreaks sickened hundreds of cruise passengers this summer in Alaska.

Among passengers and crew affected by outbreaks, authorities said, were more than 250 on the Ocean Princess in June, more than 170 on the Ryndam in late July and 18 on the Wilderness Discoverer, a small ship owned by Glacier Bay Cruiseline.

In most cases, the cause has been identified as the Norwalk virus, typically spread through fecal matter or vomit, epidemiologists said. Symptoms include nausea, vomiting and diarrhea.

Cruise ships plying Alaska waters report clusters of illness almost every year, said Dr. Beth Funk, a state epidemiologist. In 1998 the CDC recommended that anyone 65 or older or those who are ill check with their doctor before embarking on a cruise.

--Associated Press