Update on suspected norovirus outbreak on Marco Polo
Issued by NHS Highland
Three people remain in Raigmore Hospital after falling ill on board the Marco Polo docked at Invergordon.
One person has been discharged, and one further patient has been admitted. In total there are still four people in hospital at this time.
All patients were admitted as a precautionary measure.
Dr Ken Oates, interim Director of Public Health at NHS Highland said: “We are still waiting for the results of the tests to establish if this is indeed norovirus but I would also like to remind people that norovirus, commonly known as the winter vomiting bug, affects an estimated 600,000 to one million people in the UK every year. Outbreaks are relatively common and particularly within contained environments.
“In total around 380 passengers on board the vessel have been assessed after experiencing symptoms of the tummy bug.
“We would like to reassure people local to the Invergordon area that the risk to their health is extremely low. Any passengers who are unwell are being prescribed bed rest and plenty of fluids. This type of bug usually passes in 24 to 48 hours.
“This is a very short lived illness, and although nasty at the time, most people are recovering quickly. The onset is rapid and the main symptoms are vomiting and diarrhoea.
“This type of illness is common in the community from time to time and there is no additional risk to the local population in Easter Ross unless someone was unwell and, for example, vomited in their premises.
“If that is the case rubber gloves, aprons, and disposable cloths should be used to wash the surfaces with hot soapy water, and then wipe with a bleach solution. The best method of protecting yourself from the vomiting and diarrhoea bug is excellent hygiene, especially careful hand washing with a liquid soap.
“We would also like to applaud the efforts of the local GP and nurse team who went to assist on the ship yesterday. They have worked solidly throughout the night to help reassure passengers and give them advice during what is clearly a stressful time for them.
“NHS staff will continue to support the tour operators, Highland Council, and everyone involved in this situation to ensure that passengers make a speedy recovery.
The vessel is currently berthed at Saltburn Pier, Invergordon. Cromarty Firth Port Authority port manager/harbour master Ken Gray said: “CFPA is supporting NHS Highland and the ship’s owners and master in dealing with this matter.”
A leaflet is available outlining information about norovirus on the NHS website at http://www.nhshighland.scot.nhs.uk/Publications/Pages/PublicHealth-InfectiousDiseaseInformation.aspx