A norovirus outbreak aboard the Oceania Insignia cruise ship has affected over 70 passengers, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). As of October 21, 74 out of 637 passengers reported symptoms during the ship’s 11-day journey, representing approximately 11.6% of those on board. In contrast, only one crew member among 391 was affected, with primary symptoms including diarrhea and vomiting.
The cruise commenced on October 16 from Montreal and is scheduled to dock in Boston on October 27. In a statement to PEOPLE, a cruise line representative confirmed the outbreak, describing the illness as "acute gastroenteritis." The company has implemented CDC-approved protocols, prioritizing the health and safety of all guests, and has intensified cleaning and disinfection efforts while isolating affected individuals.
The CDC has reported 20 gastrointestinal illness outbreaks on cruise ships this year, with 15 being attributed to norovirus. Although outbreaks on cruise ships represent only about 1% of all norovirus cases, controlling the virus on ships is particularly challenging due to close living conditions and shared dining areas. The organization noted that contamination can occur through food, water, or infected passengers boarding the ship.
