CDC Reports Norovirus Outbreak on 200 US Cruise Ship Passengers in April

The US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has revealed that nearly 200 passengers on American cruise ships suffered outbreaks of norovirus in April, affecting a total of 3.71% or 94 out of the 2,532 people aboard Princess Cruises’ Sapphire Princess ship during its current voyage which began on April 5 and ends May 7 according to cruisetracking website CruiseMapper. Another 20 crew members also reported illnesses during this time. Similarly, Royal Caribbean International’s Radiance of the Seas saw an outbreak that affected a total of 67 out of its 1,993 passengers who fell ill between April 8 and April 22 according to CDC reports. Both cruise lines responded by isolating sick individuals as well as increasing cleaning procedures in line with health authorities’ recommendations following the norovirus incidents which resulted primarily in diarrhea and vomiting symptoms for both outbreaks. Princess Cruises and Royal Caribbean International did not immediately respond to requests for comment, but the CDC confirmed that measures were taken against these diseases during such circumstances. The CDC emphasized passengers aboard vessels exposed to elevated chances of ill-health stemming from environmental conditions or contact with infected individuals due to new surroundings or contaminated food and water sources which could potentially cause gastrointestinal issues among other illnesses, advising those experiencing symptoms before embarking on a voyage to consult their cruise line for alternative options. In response, passengers aboard the ships were advised by CDC authorities to wash hands frequently as well as stay hydrated while getting enough rest in order to prevent further spread of diseases that can result from norovirus outbreaks which are known primarily for causing diarrhea and vomiting symptoms among affected individuals.