P&O Cruises is facing a lawsuit from former passengers who allege that its cleaning practices are inadequate. Adding to their troubles, there is a reported outbreak of gastroenteritis affecting passengers on the cruise ship Ventura off the coast of Northern France near the Channel Islands. The ship, carrying 3,200 passengers, departed from Southampton on November 23, 2024, for a 12-night roundtrip voyage to the Canary Islands. Passengers on board the Ventura on December 4, 2024, have reported cases of gastroenteritis, prompting the crew to advise passengers to avoid large gatherings and stay in their cabins if feeling unwell.
According to reports, the crew of the Ventura made an announcement to passengers about the outbreak of gastroenteritis or norovirus, a condition causing inflammation of the stomach and intestines. The cruise line, in response to the outbreak, stated that they work closely with health authorities to maintain the health and well-being of all guests and crew. Standard protocols on cruise ships include increased cleaning in public areas, isolating affected passengers, promoting good hygiene, and modifying buffet service to prevent the spread of bacteria.
The outbreak on the Ventura follows a recent lawsuit against P&O Cruises by 115 passengers who claimed negligence in sanitation measures during previous norovirus outbreaks on the ship. The plaintiffs alleged that inadequate cleaning and poor communication contributed to the spread of the virus, affecting hundreds of passengers on multiple sailings. Despite P&O Cruises’ emphasis on guest safety and cleanliness, the recurring incidents on the Ventura raise concerns about potential gaps in their protocols. Other P&O ships, including the Coral Princess, have also faced similar issues with norovirus outbreaks in recent times.
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