More than 1,700 people are being detained aboard a UK-operated cruise ship in France following an outbreak of gastroenteritis that has affected 49 individuals. Essex-based Ambassador Cruise Line confirmed that French authorities in Bordeaux have ordered all 1,187 passengers and 514 crew members to remain on the vessel, the Ambition, while medical samples are analyzed at a local hospital.
Passenger Death Under Investigation
A 92-year-old male passenger died on Sunday. The cruise line stated that he exhibited no symptoms of gastroenteritis, and the cause of death has yet to be determined.
Current Cases
Ambassador Cruise Line reported that there are currently 48 passengers and one crew member with active gastrointestinal illness. The ship departed from Belfast on Friday, made a stop in Liverpool on Saturday, and was on a 14-night voyage to France and Spain. Cases of gastroenteritis increased after passengers boarded in Liverpool.
Company Response
In a statement, Ambassador Cruise Line said: “We would like to reassure guests that we take any illnesses aboard our fleet extremely seriously. Enhanced sanitation and prevention protocols were immediately implemented across the ship in line with established public health procedures following the initial reports of illness. The comprehensive health and safety measures introduced include increased cleaning and disinfection measures in public areas, assisted service in selected dining venues and ongoing guidance to guests regarding hand hygiene, including regular hand washing, use of hand sanitisers and the prompt reporting of any symptoms to the onboard medical team.”
A spokesman for the cruise line clarified that there is no connection between this outbreak and the hantavirus outbreak on the MV Hondius cruise ship.
