Norovirus confirmed on cruise ship in France after up to 50 fall ill

French health officials have confirmed a norovirus outbreak aboard the cruise ship Ambition after up to 50 passengers reported gastrointestinal symptoms, according to officials. Authorities temporarily blocked passengers and crew from disembarking.

The outbreak was reported overnight Tuesday aboard the Ambition, which has more than 1,200 passengers and crew members on board after traveling from Belfast and Liverpool. Up to 50 passengers reported symptoms compatible with an acute digestive infection, according to the prefecture.

Officials said Wednesday that epidemiological analysis and biological samples tested at Bordeaux University Hospital confirmed viral gastroenteritis caused by norovirus, with transmission believed to be person to person or through the ship environment.

Passengers who became ill were treated by the ship’s medical team and isolated in their cabins. No serious cases have been reported, according to the prefecture.

The prefect of Gironde had temporarily suspended disembarkation for passengers and crew as a precaution while test results were pending. Authorities also limited interactions with the port, though medical teams were allowed to board the ship.

After norovirus was confirmed, officials said the disembarkation ban would be lifted for people without symptoms. Isolation measures will continue for sick passengers.

The prefecture said there was no reason to link the outbreak on the Ambition to the hantavirus cases detected on the MV Hondius.