The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention report 224 out of the 1,820 passengers aboard Holland America's Zuiderdam fell ill by an outbreak traced to the norovirus, flu-like stomach bug that causes diarrhea and vomiting.

The outbreak occurred during the cruise vessel's 17-night voyage. Zuiderdam berthed at Port Everglades Sunday morning to have the passengers checked

More than 60 people fell ill with norovirus infection Thursday at the Gaylord National Resort and Convention Center in Oxon Hill, Maryland. Several people reported symptoms as they prepared to leave on flights from Washington after attending the medical convention.

Officials received calls about many traveler reporting sick Thursday evening at Reagan National Airport. The travelers had similar symptoms, including nausea. About 65 out of 350 people who attended the conference became ill but returned home safely

Nearly 200 people have now reported getting sick due to gastrointestinal illness. The State Health Department is investigating what causes the outbreak at the Great Escape Lodge and Indoor Water Park.

The restaurants at the lodge have been temporarily closed after the Health Department found out that some workers were sick. The patrons were given hand sanitizer upon entering the hotel and water park. The drinking water and water in the pools have been tested negative for bacteria

One-fifth of U.K.'s hospitals closed wards in an effort to contain the vomiting virus that has bugged the nation. Around 100,000 Britons catch the norovirus a week and the number of vomiting virus patients are expected to go up to 200,000 every 7 days next week as schools reopen after the Christmas holiday break.

The virus has been passed from patients to hospital staff, prompting hospital administrators to ban relatives from visiting patients to prevent the further spread of the bug

More than 100,000 Britons have been downed by winter vomiting virus, its worst outbreak in the U.K. for five years. Health authorities anticipate a bigger number of victims in the coming days as the weather conditions worsen. The Health Protection Agency said the figure could double within the month.

The severe stomach bug, called norovirus, causes vomiting and diarrhea. To prevent the spread of the virus, victims have been advised to stay at home. The Royal College of General Practitioners said those affected by the norovirus must remain at home for two more days after they last experienced the bug's symptoms