Coronavirus: Confirmed cases aboard cruise ship triple to 61, including 11 U.S. citizens

Japanese health officials confirmed Thursday the number of diagnosed cases of coronavirus aboard a Princess Cruises ship has tripled to 61, including 11 U.S. citizens.

In a statement issued late Thursday, the cruise line said the Japanese Ministry of Health confirmed 41 additional passengers aboard the Diamond Princess – docked and quarantined in Japan's Yokohama Bay – have tested positive for the novel virus, CNN reported.

Princess Cruises' Public Relations Director Negin Kamali told USA Today that Japanese health officials have evaluated 2,666 passengers and 1,045 crew members aboard the ship.

"The health and safety of our guests and crew remains our top priority. We continue to work closely with the Japan Ministry of Health on all protocols and procedures while ensuring the comfort and well-being of our guests," Kamali said in a statement.

The statement also confirmed Thursday's count included the final batch of passengers to be tested, CNN reported.

In addition to the 11 U.S. citizens testing positive for the novel virus, CNN reported the remaining 50 patients hail from the following locales:

• Argentina (1)

• Australia (7)

• Canada (7)

• Hong Kong (3)

• Japan (28)

• New Zealand (1)

• Philippines (1)

• Taiwan (1)

• United Kingdom (1)

The quarantine remains in place until Feb. 19.