Royal Caribbean cruise cut short by illness

The ship returned to the Port of Baltimore on Monday.

Gastrointestinal illness sickened 193 guests (9.91%) and nine crew members (1.15%), Royal Caribbean spokeswoman Cynthia Martinez told CNN affiliate WBAL.

“Wash your hands frequently and take advantage of the hand-washing stations throughout the ship,” she said.

“Prior to boarding, passengers go through a health screening aimed to help avoid the possibility of any pre-cruise illnesses being brought onboard — it’s important for cruisers to answer those questions truthfully to keep themselves, and others, healthy. Other than that, just know that passenger safety is the top priority for cruise lines, and cruise ship staff are well-equipped to prevent the spread of illness onboard as best as possible.”

CNN