The Japanese government is considering testing all passengers aboard the Diamond Princess cruise ship — which remains docked under quarantine off the coast of Yokohama — regardless of whether they are symptomatic. So far, authorities have been prioritizing testing passengers and crew members who feel unwell.
Metro Manila (CNN Philippines, February 10) — Four more Filipinos on board the Diamond Princess cruise ship have tested positive for novel coronavirus, the Department of Foreign Affairs said on Monday.
It said the tests came out on Sunday. There are now five Filipinos — all crew members — on board the vessel who are infected with the virus. They are now being treated in hospitals in Japan.
“The Embassy is closely coordinating with Japanese authorities, and is in constant communication with the Filipinos still onboard, to provide them all possible assistance,” DFA said in a statement.
Labor Secretary Silvestre Bello III said the first Filipino who tested positive last week is on the “road to recovery.”
There are over 3,700 people, including 530 Filipinos, quarantined on board the vessel.
The ship has been quarantined since February 4, after a former passenger tested positive for the novel coronavirus. Since then, 70 new cases have been confirmed and taken off the ship. All guests on board will remain quarantined until February 19.
They were assured of receiving a full refund for the cruise.
