Researchers Find Vaccine For Cruise Ship Virus

A new vaccine is underway for the possible prevention of the norovirus, a virus that has brought many cruise ship injuries over the past two years. Outbreaks have been reported more frequently, with passengers experiencing bad vomiting and bad diarrhea, like the Celebrity Cruise ship, Solstice. The virus is highly contagious and spreads like wild fire aboard cruise ships.

A 2009 study published in the Clinical Infectious Diseases journal stated that the norovirus is a result of negligent and unsafe cleaning, which then leads to the contamination among food handlers, doorknobs, sneezing, and handshakes.

Dr. Robert Atmar, a professor of medicine and molecular virology at the Baylor College of Medicine has said that it is possible to prevent infection and illness with a vaccine for norovirus.

A recent study of the vaccine showed great results. Out of 98 people who were given the vaccine, seventy percent were less likely to develop the stomach bug, the cause behind cramping, diarrhea, and vomiting. Plus, the norovirus appeared in their system less frequently.

There were no safety issues reported while doing the study, which lasted a few weeks. The vaccine is given in two doses, three weeks apart, and had small side effects like stuffy nose and sneezing.

It seems like the studies are proving to be worth the effort, but there are no details about when or if the vaccine will be made available. Perhaps it could be a tremendous stepping stone that may lead to further research for potential vaccines.

If you or anyone you know has been injured on a cruise ship, contact the lawyers at V&B for free information and a free evaluation. Toll Free: 888-473-1258.