The Japanese Ministry of Health confirmed that 66 more people have tested positive for the virus over the weekend, bringing the total number of cases up to 136.

These cases include four from Australia, one from Canada, 45 from Japan, three from the Philippines, one from the UK, one from Ukraine and 11 from the US.

The ship is currently under quarantine in Yokohama, off the coast of Japan, for two weeks (commencing 5 February) as tests continue.

A Princess Cruises spokesperson said: “We are following guidance from the Japan Ministry of Health on plans for disembarkation protocols to provide medical care for these new cases.

“Since it is early in the quarantine period of 14 days, it was not unexpected that additional cases would be reported involving individuals who were exposed prior to the start of the quarantine.

“The Japan Ministry of Health has been the lead public health authority defining the testing protocols for all guests and crew on Diamond Princess.”

The cruise line has said that the quarantine end date remains at 19 February, unless there are “any unforeseen developments”, and will continue to share information and updates from the Ministry of Health.

Princess Cruises president Jan Swartz also issued a video statement over the weekend and said that the “guests and crew on board Diamond Princess are the focus of our entire global organisation right now” and that the cruise line is working “collaboratively” with the Japanese Ministry of Health “on additional enhancements” as it adapts to “the unique challenges of the situation”.

Our global team is working tirelessly to continue supporting #DiamondPrincess guests and crew during this challenging time. As onboard needs continue to evolve, here’s an update on our current priorities. We will continue to provide updates as available: https://t.co/UBg4pIrrYI pic.twitter.com/IBSvpay7lD

— Princess Cruises (@PrincessCruises) February 9, 2020

This includes working on distributing medication to guests not relating to coronavirus, based on medical priority.

In order to provide “as much care and comfort” to those on board, telephone access has also been arranged for guests on board with trained counsellors. Both English and Japanese-speaking counsellors are available, and guests can call directly from their staterooms.

Printed newspapers in 30 different languages are available and TV satellite stations have been added, along with an additional 50+ movies in various languages. Guests have also been given access to fitness and exercise videos, including Tai Chi and yoga.

(1/2) Because of the extraordinary circumstances onboard #DiamondPrincess, we will refund the full cruise fare for all guests including air travel, hotel, ground transportation, pre-paid shore excursions, gratuities, and other items.

— Princess Cruises (@PrincessCruises) February 10, 2020

The cruise line also issued a statement on Twitter stating that it would be refunding the full cruise fare for all guests, including air travel, hotel, ground transportation, pre-paid shore excursions, gratuities, and other items.

Additionally, guests will not be charged for any on board incidental charges during the extra time on board.

For more information on Diamond Princess, visit princess.com. For the latest coronavirus travel and safety information, visit the FOC website.