PANAMA. (THECOUNT) — At least four passengers aboard Holland America cruise ship “Zaandam,” have reportedly died. Previously, two individuals were said to have been tested positive for the coronavirus.
According to a Friday news release from the cruise line, which did not include a cause of death, 138 people — 53 guests and 85 crew members — had reported flu-like symptoms.
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Holland America said in its statement. There are 1,243 guests onboard and 586 crew members. The ship was off the coast of Panama.
Via NewsJax:
On Thursday, a “number of patients with respiratory symptoms” tested for coronavirus, it said, and two people were positive.
The news release said that when the ship first saw guests report flu-like symptoms on March 22, the crew took protective measures and asked all guests to self-isolate in their rooms. All guests and crew members received face masks Thursday.
The ship exchanged medical supplies with a sister ship, Rotterdam, Thursday evening prior, according to the news release.
Cruise line officials are working with the Panamanian authorities to receive approval to use the Panama Canal before sailing on to Fort Lauderdale, Florida, the news release said.
DEVELOPING::
Geo quick facts: Panama is a country on the isthmus linking Central and South America. The Panama Canal, a famous feat of human engineering, cuts through its center, linking the Atlantic and Pacific oceans to create an essential shipping route. In the capital, Panama City, modern skyscrapers, casinos and nightclubs contrast with colonial buildings in the Casco Viejo district and the rainforest of Natural Metropolitan Park – wikipedia.