JACKSONVILLE, Fla. — A Carnival Elation cruise ship that sails out of Jacksonville has implemented enhanced cleaning procedures after several guests reported symptoms consistent with gastroenteritis, also known as stomach flu.
According to a statement from Carnival Elation, the ship, which is set to return to Jacksonville on Monday, will undergo extra cleaning procedures before more guests embark on the next cruise.
The company said multiple passengers reported to the ship's medical center with various symptoms.
There have been no reports of serious illness, according to Carnival.
Carnival is encouraging all passengers to wash their hands frequently to avoid spreading the illness.
Gastroenteritis can be spread through contact with an infected person or by consuming water or food that is contaminated with the virus. There is no treatment for gastroenteritis. according to the Mayo Clinic.
Statement from Carnival Elation
"Guests on Carnival Elation have been advised to follow our protocols to manage gastroenteritis, after we saw a number of guests report to the ship’s medical center with various symptoms. There are no reports of serious illness and we have implemented enhanced cleaning procedures and asked our guests to be diligent in frequently washing their hands. When Carnival Elation returns to Jacksonville on Monday, the ship will undergo an extra layer to our vigorous cleaning procedures ahead of guests embarking for the next cruise."