Norovirus Outbreak Sickens More Than 100 People on Caribbean Princess Cruise

CDC Investigates Cruise Ship Norovirus Cases

More than 100 passengers and crew members aboard the Caribbean Princess cruise ship were affected by a norovirus outbreak during a voyage that began on April 28, according to a report released by the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

Health officials said 102 of the ship’s 3,116 passengers and 13 of its 1,131 crew members reported symptoms including diarrhea and vomiting. The outbreak was officially reported to the CDC on May 7.

Cruise Line Increases Sanitation Measures

Princess Cruises confirmed that a limited number of guests experienced mild gastrointestinal illness during the voyage departing from Port Everglades. The company said enhanced cleaning and disinfecting procedures were immediately introduced across the ship.

Passengers showing symptoms were isolated, stool samples were collected for testing, and health officials worked closely with the CDC’s Vessel Sanitation Program to manage the situation.

The CDC stated that an environmental assessment and outbreak investigation are underway. Experts noted that norovirus outbreaks on cruise ships remain relatively uncommon compared with the millions of cases reported annually across the United States.