Introduction to the Outbreak
Over 70 people aboard a 13-day Royal Caribbean cruise have reportedly fallen ill from norovirus ahead of its final destination in Miami, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reported.
Details of the Affected Cruise
The outbreak on the Royal Caribbean International ship Serenade of the Seas, which departed from San Diego on September 19 and is scheduled to arrive at its final destination in Miami on Thursday, was reported to the CDC’s Vessel Sanitation Program on Sunday. The program is set to help prevent and control the introduction and spread of gastrointestinal illnesses on cruise ships.
Extent of the Illness
The CDC reported that 71 out of 1,874 passengers and 1 out of 883 crew members have "reported being ill during the voyage," and noted that predominant symptoms included diarrhea and vomiting.
Response to the Outbreak
In response to the outbreak, the crew aboard the ship has increased cleaning and disinfection procedures, collected stool specimens from passengers with gastrointestinal illnesses for testing, and isolated ill passengers and crew, according to the CDC.
Statement from Royal Caribbean
"The health and safety of our guests, crew, and the communities we visit are our top priority," a Royal Caribbean Group spokesperson told NBC News. "To maintain an environment that supports the highest levels of health and safety onboard our ships, we implement rigorous cleaning procedures, many of which far exceed public health guidelines."
Understanding Norovirus
Norovirus is a common, highly contagious illness that can cause diarrhea, vomiting, nausea and stomach pain, typically occurring 12 to 48 hours after exposure to the virus. People can contract norovirus through contaminated objects, surfaces, food or liquids, as well as sharing meals or utensils with someone who has the illness.
Prevalence of Gastrointestinal Outbreaks
There have been 19 gastrointestinal outbreaks on cruise ships so far this year, 14 of which were caused by norovirus, as recorded by the CDC.
CDC Warning on Gastrointestinal Illnesses
"Gastrointestinal illnesses, like those caused by norovirus, are very contagious. They can spread quickly in closed and semienclosed environments, such as cruise ships," the CDC said.
Conclusion
The norovirus outbreak on the Royal Caribbean cruise ship highlights the importance of stringent health and safety measures in preventing the spread of gastrointestinal illnesses. The swift response by the crew and the CDC’s guidelines are crucial in containing such outbreaks. As the cruise industry continues to grow, it’s essential for both passengers and crew to be aware of the risks and take necessary precautions to prevent the spread of illnesses like norovirus.
FAQs
What is norovirus?
Norovirus is a common, highly contagious illness that can cause diarrhea, vomiting, nausea, and stomach pain.
How is norovirus spread?
Norovirus can be spread through contaminated objects, surfaces, food or liquids, as well as sharing meals or utensils with someone who has the illness.
What are the symptoms of norovirus?
The predominant symptoms of norovirus include diarrhea and vomiting, typically occurring 12 to 48 hours after exposure to the virus.
How many people were affected by the outbreak on the Royal Caribbean cruise?
71 out of 1,874 passengers and 1 out of 883 crew members reported being ill during the voyage.
What measures were taken in response to the outbreak?
The crew increased cleaning and disinfection procedures, collected stool specimens for testing, and isolated ill passengers and crew.
