Cruise ship vacations turn sour as norovirus outbreaks strike multiple vessels, affecting hundreds of passengers and crew members.
At a Glance
- CDC reports 14 cruise voyage outbreaks in 2024, with four ships affected in December alone
- 781 passengers and 109 crew members fell ill in December
- Norovirus outbreaks in the U.S. have reached their highest level since 2012
- Cruise lines implement enhanced sanitation protocols to combat the spread
- CDC emphasizes preventive measures and early symptom recognition
Norovirus Surge Hits Cruise Industry
The cruise industry is facing a significant challenge as norovirus outbreaks continue to affect multiple ships, causing discomfort and concern among passengers and crew. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has reported a marked increase in gastrointestinal illnesses on cruise ships, with 14 outbreaks recorded in 2024 so far. The situation has escalated, particularly in December, when four cruise ships experienced outbreaks, affecting a total of 781 passengers and 109 crew members.
The affected vessels include the Queen Mary 2, Ruby Princess, Rotterdam, and Zuiderdam. These outbreaks have raised concerns about the spread of norovirus, which is the leading cause of foodborne illness in the United States. The virus is particularly problematic on cruise ships due to the close living quarters, shared dining areas, and frequent turnover of passengers.
Cruise Lines Respond with Enhanced Protocols
In response to the outbreaks, cruise lines have been quick to implement additional safety measures. Holland America Line, which operates the Rotterdam and Zuiderdam ships, has taken significant steps to address the issue. A spokesperson for the company stated, “At Holland America Line, the safety and well-being of our guests and crew is our top priority. During the current voyage, a number of guests on Rotterdam reported symptoms of gastrointestinal illness. The cases have mostly been mild and quickly resolving.”
Holland America Line further explained their response: “We initiated enhanced sanitation protocols on both ships in conjunction with the CDC to minimize further transmission. As a further precaution, upon arrival in Fort Lauderdale both ships underwent additional and comprehensive sanitization before embarking on their next voyages with no further outbreaks.”
CDC Guidance and Preventive Measures
The CDC has emphasized the importance of preventive measures and early recognition of symptoms to limit the spread of norovirus. “Norovirus can be especially challenging to control on cruise ships because of the close living quarters, shared dining areas, and rapid turnover of passengers. When the ship docks, norovirus can be brought on board in contaminated food or water, or by passengers who were infected while ashore,” the CDC explained.
Passengers are advised to be vigilant for symptoms such as diarrhea, nausea, vomiting, stomach pain, fever, headaches, and body aches. The CDC stresses that “The rise in cases emphasizes the need for preventive measures. Early recognition of symptoms and isolating cases can limit further spread.”
