Despite the fact that many were skeptical of the risks associated with the newly discovered Coronavirus, it is beyond dispute that the virus poses a serious threat to the majority of the population. The extent of that threat remains to be seen, but with over 1,400 cases in the United States alone, and more than 30 deaths attributed to the disease, the situations is becoming dire.
Recently, it was discovered that several crew members on a Princess cruise ship tested positive for Coronavirus. According to a recent news report, the ship left San Francisco and while the ship was mid-voyage, several crew members began to exhibit symptoms. Not long after, passengers began to show signs of the virus as well. The ship was scheduled to dock in San Francisco but officials refused the ship entry. Instead, the ship was directed to a port in Oakland, California. Several days later, the occupants were able to finally exit the contaminated ship. In all, at least 21 passengers were diagnosed with Coronavirus.
According to a recent news report, the San Francisco Princess cruise ship was not the only one with cases of Coronavirus. Last month, 44 people were diagnosed with Coronavirus after exiting a Japanese cruise ship. This was well before Coronavirus was classified as a pandemic by the World Health Organization, and back when there were only a few thousand cases across the world.
While the Coronavirus is believed to have originated in the Wuhan province in China, it has since spread across the globe. Currently, the number of countries that have discovered cases of Coronavirus stands at 127. Each day this number increases. Experts explain that the Coronavirus is not unique in how it spreads. The virus can spread two ways. First, the virus can spread between people who are in close proximity to one another (approximately six feet). Second, the virus can spread through small droplets of water that are released when someone coughs or sneezes.
Cruise ships are breeding grounds for deadly diseases such as Coronavirus, and cruise operators must take all necessary precautions to protect passengers, as well as society. Unfortunately, these recent examples illustrate that the cruise industry has not taken its obligations seriously. It remains to be seen how many cases of Coronavirus will arise from other cruise ships. Those who have recently disembarked from a cruise and subsequently developed symptoms of Coronavirus should reach out to a dedicated South Florida injury attorney to discuss all available options.
Have You Been Exposed to Coronavirus on a Cruise Ship?
If you or a loved one has been exposed to Coronavirus on a Florida cruise ship, airplane, or another mode of transportation, contact the dedicated Florida personal injury lawyers at Friedman Rodman Frank & Estrada, P.A.. At our firm, we handle cases of Florida cruise ship illnesses, including food poisoning and Coronavirus. To learn more about how we can help you pursue a claim to recover monetary compensation based on your injuries or illness call 877-448-8585 to schedule a free consultation. Because we work on a contingency basis, we will not bill you for our services unless we are able to help you obtain compensation for your injuries.