Baku, July 12, AZERTAC
Queensland authorities say a COVID-19 outbreak on a cruise ship was expected, as the state nears 41,000 active cases, according to ABC News.
The outbreak — that has affected around 100 passengers and crew on the Coral Princess, which docked in Brisbane on Sunday — led to Princess Cruises offering refunds to those booked on its next 12-day cruise.
There were more than 2,300 guests and crew on the affected cruise ship, which was headed to New South Wales.
Of the 100 positive cases, a small number of guests disembarked in Brisbane.
Queensland Health Minister Yvette D'Ath said COVID-19 protocols were in place on the ship before the outbreak.
She said some passengers are isolating at home or in other accommodation, while authorities are helping the company manage infected staff on board.
"This was always going to happen just like the rest of community," Ms D'Ath said.
A Princess Cruises spokesperson said they were doing everything possible to enable guests and crew to stay safe alongside COVID-19.