A norovirus outbreak has affected numerous passengers aboard Royal Caribbean International’s cruise ship, Serenade of the Seas, currently navigating the Atlantic, as reported by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). According to the CDC’s Vessel Sanitation Program, 71 out of 1,874 passengers have experienced gastrointestinal illnesses since the voyage commenced on September 19 in San Diego, with an expected conclusion in Miami on October 2. Additionally, one crew member has also reported illness.
The primary symptoms associated with this outbreak include diarrhea and vomiting. The CDC was notified of the situation on September 28. Norovirus is known for its highly contagious nature, particularly in confined spaces like cruise ships, and is commonly linked to symptoms such as vomiting, diarrhea, and stomach cramps.
In response to the outbreak, Royal Caribbean and the ship’s crew have initiated enhanced cleaning and disinfection protocols, isolated those affected, and collected stool samples for further testing. The CDC is actively monitoring the situation remotely and assessing the ship’s response measures.
Earlier this year, a significant norovirus outbreak occurred aboard Cunard Line’s Queen Mary 2 in March, affecting 266 passengers and 19 crew members during a transatlantic journey, highlighting the ongoing challenges posed by this virus in cruise environments.
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