Over 1,000 Norovirus Cases Spread to 11 Sailings from One Ship, New Stats Show

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A significant norovirus outbreak aboard P&O Cruises' ship Ventura has affected over 1,000 passengers and crew members across eleven separate sailings between February and June of this year.

According to a news report, the worst outbreak occurred on a voyage departing Southampton on May 11, with a staggering 519 cases reported.

Norovirus Cases on P&O Cruises' Ventura by Month

Here's a breakdown of the norovirus cases reported on P&O Cruises' Ventura ship, organized by month:

• February: 74 cases
• March: 10 cases
• April: 171 cases
• May: 1,022 cases
• June: 87 cases

The most significant outbreak occurred in May, with 1,022 cases reported across multiple sailings.

The full extent of the outbreak came to light as passengers began sharing their experiences and demanding compensation from the cruise company.

Dozens of cruisers are now represented by Hudgells Solicitors, who have criticized P&O Cruises for a previous statement downplaying the severity of the outbreak.

In May, passengers described enduring violent sickness, cleaning issues, and a generally unpleasant experience.

One passenger, Lindsey from South London, described having "the worst night of her life" after falling ill. "I have never been that sick in my life," she said. "It was like The Exorcist."

P&O Cruises has defended its response, stating that "enhanced sanitization protocols" were put in place to address the outbreak.

However, passengers like Howard and Hazel Lunn, who were told of the outbreak the night before departing on their £5,000 holiday, have expressed disappointment with the company's handling of the situation.

"Our holiday was completely ruined, as I am sure it was for hundreds of others," Mr. Lunn said.

The outbreak has raised questions about the cruise industry's preparedness for such outbreaks and the effectiveness of its sanitation measures.

As the number of cases continues to be tallied, it remains to be seen how P&O Cruises will address the concerns of affected passengers and whether it will implement additional measures to prevent future outbreaks.