Importance Score: 45 / 100 🔵
Cruise Ship Norovirus Outbreak Sickens Hundreds on Queen Mary 2
A significant gastrointestinal illness outbreak, identified as norovirus, has affected over 200 individuals aboard Cunard Line’s Queen Mary 2 cruise ship. The vessel, en route to New York, reported numerous cases among passengers and crew, marking the latest instance of norovirus impacting the cruise industry.
Cruise Ship Passengers and Crew Affected
According to data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), 224 of the 2,538 guests on the Queen Mary 2 reported experiencing illness during the current voyage this month. In addition, 17 crew members have also been affected by the outbreak of the contagious stomach bug.
Voyage Disruption and Health Measures
The Queen Mary 2 commenced its journey from Southampton, England, on March 8, with its itinerary including New York and onward travel to the Caribbean. The voyage is scheduled to conclude on April 6. The ongoing viral infection has impacted a portion of those onboard for a considerable duration at sea.
Cunard Line Statement on Norovirus Cases
A representative for Cunard Line issued a statement to USA TODAY via email, stating: “We have observed a small number of guests aboard Queen Mary 2 reporting symptoms consistent with gastrointestinal illness. We are actively monitoring the health of all guests and, as a precautionary measure, have conducted an extensive deep cleaning of the vessel. We have also implemented our elevated health and safety protocols, which are demonstrating effectiveness.”
Second Cruise Ship, Seabourn Encore, Battles Separate Norovirus Incident
Another cruise liner, Seabourn Cruise Line’s Seabourn Encore, is also currently managing a norovirus outbreak. The CDC reported that 12 of the 461 guests and 22 of the 405 crew members aboard the Seabourn Encore have reported becoming ill with the gastrointestinal illness.
Seabourn Encore Passengers and Crew Fall Ill
To date, 34 individuals on the Seabourn Encore have reported symptoms of the illness, prompting health and safety measures onboard.
Seabourn Encore Voyage Duration
The Seabourn Encore’s current voyage is not scheduled to conclude until April 9, indicating an extended period of managing the onboard health situation.
Isolation Procedures Implemented
The CDC confirmed that all individuals exhibiting symptoms of illness on both the Queen Mary 2 and Seabourn Encore were placed in isolation to prevent further spread of the virus.
Increase in Cruise Ship Gastrointestinal Illness Outbreaks
This year has seen a rise in reported gastrointestinal illness outbreaks on cruise ships, with 12 incidents documented thus far. Of these, ten outbreaks have been specifically linked to norovirus, a virus known for causing unpleasant symptoms like vomiting and diarrhea.
Norovirus Outbreak Statistics on Cruise Ships
The CDC’s data highlights the prevalence of norovirus as the primary cause of gastrointestinal issues on cruise vessels.
Multiple Outbreaks Affect Cruise Operators
Several cruise lines have experienced more than one norovirus outbreak within their fleets this year, indicating a broader challenge for the industry.
Cruise Lines Reporting Multiple Incidents
Princess Cruises has had two ships affected, while Holland America cruises reported outbreaks on three separate voyages in the current year.
Norovirus Cases Originating on Cruise Ships Remain Low
Although norovirus outbreaks on cruise ships gain attention, the CDC estimates that approximately 2,500 norovirus cases are reported across the US annually, with only about 1% of these originating on cruise ships.
2023 Saw Peak in Cruise Ship Gastrointestinal Illnesses
Data indicates that the previous year, 2023, marked a high point for gastrointestinal outbreaks on cruise ships, with a total of 16 reported incidents.