NOV. 3–GIBRALTAR — Spain closed its border with Gibraltar today, ahead of the arrival of a cruise ship at the tiny British colony.
More than 400 passengers had gotten sick with a viral infection on the cruise ship Aurora, which is owned by P&O Princess Cruises. A company spokesman said only 50 people are still sick. The sickness struck after the ship left England for a Mediterranean cruise on Oct. 20. The infection causes vomiting and diarrhea.
Spain said the border closing is just a precaution, and would stay in effect until there’s more information about the condition of the infected passengers.
Gibraltar frequently complains that Spain causes delays at the border as part of a campaign to reclaim the territory. The closing could affect thousands of people who cross the border each day for work.