BAYONNE, N.J. — About two dozen people aboard a Royal Caribbean cruise ship docked in New Jersey were screened for the novel coronavirus, and four of those patients were transported to a local hospital for further testing, according to Bayonne Mayor Jimmy Davis.
The ship, which pulled into port in Bayonne around 6 a.m. ET, had a group of at least a dozen passengers in isolation who might have to be tested for the new virus, according to the New York Post.
Several people were seen taken out in stretchers while others walked out of the ship wearing masks.
Bayonne Mayor Jimmy Davis addressed the situation Friday morning on Twitter, writing: "I have been briefed on the RC cruise ship arriving this morning. I am certain that the NJ DoH, CDC and PA NY/NJ are prepared and equipped to address any concerns this morning."
In a later tweet, Davis said about two dozen people were screened, with four sent to an area hospital for further screening. The CDC considers this a "below low risk" situation, and all other passengers were released with no action needed.
RC Update: Approx 2 dozen were screened this morning with 4 sent to area hosp for further screening. I was advised CDC considers this “Below Low Risk” situation. All other passengers released w/no action needed.
— Mayor Jimmy Davis (@DavisForBayonne) February 7, 2020
PIX11 reached out to Royal Caribbean and the company provided this statement:
"Like airlines, we are participating in elevated levels of guest screening to check the spread of coronavirus. We are closely monitoring developments regarding coronavirus and have rigorous medical protocols in place onboard our ships. We continue to work in close consultation with the CDC, the WHO, and local health authorities to align with their guidance and ensure the health and wellbeing of our guests and crew."
This story was originally published by Mark Sundstrom and Kirstin Cole on WPIX in New York.
