The producer of the program El Show del Mediodía, Iván Ruiz, called the decision to allow the disembarkation of passengers from a cruise ship with norovirus on Friday, May 8, in Puerto Plata irresponsible. In his opinion, expressed on Monday, this action exposed the local population to a highly contagious virus that causes intense vomiting and diarrhea.
Details of the incident on the cruise ship
The affected ship arrived at the Ambrosian port with several passengers reporting symptoms. Despite international sanitary protocols, which recommend isolation in cases of outbreaks, Dominican authorities opted for total disembarkation. Sources from the Ministry of Public Health confirmed at least 20 initial cases, although unofficial figures speak of more affected.
Risks of norovirus and historical context
Norovirus, known as winter virus, is transmitted through fecal-oral contact, contaminated surfaces, and aerosols. According to the WHO, it causes 685 million cases annually globally, with high incidence in cruises due to overcrowding. In the Dominican Republic, a similar outbreak in 2019 in La Romana affected 150 tourists, forcing strict quarantines. Experts like epidemiologist Carlos Díaz warn that disembarking passengers from a cruise ship with norovirus without massive testing accelerates community spread.
- Symptoms: Nausea, vomiting, and fever in 12-48 hours.
- Duration: 1-3 days, but contagious for up to two weeks.
- Prevention: Handwashing and disinfection.
Official reactions and critical analysis
Position of the Ministry of Health
The Ministry of Public Health downplayed the risk, stating that epidemiological surveillance and PCR testing were activated at the port. However, Iván Ruiz questions the lack of prior communication and preventive measures, recalling that Puerto Plata receives 500,000 cruise passengers per year, a key flow for the economy.
It is irresponsible to let disembark passengers from a cruise ship with norovirus without adequate containment, Ruiz said in his program.
Statistics from the CDC indicate that 90% of outbreaks on cruises are due to norovirus. In this case, the decision contrasts with guidelines from the WTO, which require quarantine on board until transmission is ruled out.
The debate over disembarking passengers from a cruise ship with norovirus in Puerto Plata highlights tensions between tourism and public health in the Dominican Republic. Authorities are monitoring new cases, while residents demand greater transparency to prevent local epidemics.
