Norovirus caused 400 illnesses on cruise ship that left South Carolina headed to Caribbean

Norovirus hit cruise ship that left SC for islands

CHARLESTON, S.C. — Federal health officials are saying a virus caused more than 400 people to get sick on a cruise ship that left South Carolina for the Caribbean earlier this month.

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention spokesman Jay Dempsey said Thursday samples taken from ill passengers have confirmed the norovirus. The main symptoms are upset stomachs, vomiting and diarrhea.

Norovirus is often to blame when symptoms sweep closed quarters like those on cruise ships.

The Celebrity Mercury is due in Charleston early Friday. Celebrity Cruise spokeswoman Cynthia Martinez says 413 of the more than 2,600 passengers and crew became ill.

The illness reached its peak early this week. Martinez says 48 guests are in isolation as the ship heads back to Charleston.