Cruise Ship Outbreak: CDC Reports Illnesses on Norwegian, Royal Caribbean, and Other Lines

Recent Outbreaks Raise Concerns

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has reported a series of cruise ship outbreaks involving gastrointestinal illnesses. These outbreaks have affected hundreds of passengers across multiple cruise lines.

Norwegian Cruise Line

On June 22, officials in Mauritius blocked a Norwegian Cruise Line ship after around 140 passengers fell ill with a gastrointestinal illness. The ship was due to dock in Port Louis but was denied entry due to the outbreak.

Princess Cruises and Royal Caribbean

In separate incidents, Princess Cruises and Royal Caribbean have both experienced norovirus outbreaks on their ships. Nearly 200 people became sick on two Princess Cruises vessels, while a Royal Caribbean ship also reported a norovirus outbreak.

Holland America Line

The Holland America Line's Nieuw Amsterdam, which set sail on May 6, is one of 11 cruise ships that have reported gastrointestinal illnesses to the CDC in recent weeks.

Impacts on Travelers

These outbreaks have raised concerns among travelers and cruise industry officials. CNN reports that millions of Americans embark on cruise ship vacations each year, and these incidents highlight the potential health risks associated with such trips.

Viking Neptune Outbreak

Most recently, a norovirus outbreak on the Viking Neptune in June sickened approximately 140 passengers. Passengers reported symptoms such as vomiting, diarrhea, and abdominal pain.

Ongoing Investigations

The CDC is investigating the outbreaks and working to identify the sources of the infections. Cruise lines are also implementing enhanced cleaning and disinfection protocols to prevent further spread of the illnesses.