The CDC is keeping a close eye on a norovirus outbreak aboard the Caribbean Princess, a cruise ship that left Fort Lauderdale on April 28. Recent reports show that 102 of the 3,116 passengers and 13 of the 1,131 crew members have fallen ill, mainly experiencing diarrhea and vomiting.
To tackle the situation, Princess Cruises has ramped up cleaning efforts and is isolating those affected. They are working with the CDC’s Vessel Sanitation Program to ensure proper protocols are followed. An environmental assessment is underway to understand the outbreak better.
This isn’t the first time norovirus has affected cruise ships. In March, the Star Princess, another ship from Princess Cruises, experienced a similar outbreak, with more than 150 people getting sick. That ship had a route that also started from Fort Lauderdale and included stops in the Caribbean.
Interestingly, norovirus outbreaks are not exclusive to Princess Cruises. In early January, over 80 passengers on a Holland America ship reported illness after leaving Fort Lauderdale. Just a month before, in February, 27 people were sick on a luxury cruise ship sailing from Miami to Honolulu.
Cruise vacations have their charm, but it’s essential to stay informed about health risks. According to a recent survey by the Cruise Lines International Association, 65% of travelers still feel safe cruising despite reported outbreaks. This shows that, while concerns exist, many still enjoy the experience.
If you’re planning to cruise, keep an eye on any reports and practice good hygiene on board.
For more detailed information about cruise ship sanitation and health guidelines, you can check the CDC’s official page here.
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Health, Cruise Ship, Norovirus
