Cruise passengers, crew struck by norovirus

MIAMI – A stomach virus has stricken more than 100 people on a Princess Cruise Lines ship sailing from South Florida.

The company said in a statement that 92 passengers and 13 crew members aboard the Ruby Princess were affected by Norovirus, which causes vomiting, diarrhea and stomach pain. The ship is expected to return to Fort Lauderdale Sunday.

Meanwhile, there has been an increase in the number of cases of gastrointestinal illness among passengers on the Crown Princess, which returned Saturday to Port Everglades.

Spokeswoman Julie Benson said the cases do not appear to be related. The cause of the illness has not yet been determined.

All cabins and public areas on the ships are being disinfected, which will delay their next departures.