Over 250 People Ill After Back-To-Back Outbreaks Aboard Cruise Ship

Cruise vacations are often seen as a luxurious escape, but recent events have raised concerns about health safety aboard these floating resorts. Just weeks after a significant outbreak of gastrointestinal illness, another wave of sickness has struck a Cunard Line cruise ship. This situation has left passengers and crew members anxious as they navigate the waters of illness and uncertainty.

Details of the Outbreaks

The latest outbreak occurred on a Cunard Line ship that departed from New York on December 21st. Reports indicate that 223 passengers and 44 crew members are currently experiencing symptoms of gastrointestinal illness. This follows a previous voyage that began on December 14th, which saw over 100 individuals fall ill. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) confirmed that the earlier trip resulted in at least 138 sick guests and 12 crew members. As of now, it remains unclear if any passengers or crew members from the first outbreak are also affected in the second incident.

The symptoms reported in both outbreaks include vomiting, diarrhea, and abdominal cramps. However, the exact cause of these illnesses has not been identified. The CDC has classified the causative agents as unknown for both outbreaks. This lack of clarity adds to the concern among those aboard and their families waiting at home. The ship is scheduled to dock on January 3rd, and many are eager for updates on the health status of those onboard.

The Broader Context of Cruise Ship Illnesses

The recent outbreaks on Cunard Line ships are part of a larger trend of gastrointestinal illnesses reported on cruise ships in 2024. The CDC has documented a total of 16 outbreaks this year, with 11 of these attributed to Norovirus. Other illnesses, including E. coli and Salmonella, have also been reported, but many cases remain classified as “unknown.” The CDC only tracks outbreaks where 3% or more of passengers or crew report symptoms, meaning there could be additional unreported cases aboard cruise ships.

Princess Cruise Ship Will Have Delayed Embarkation for Disinfection

Cruise ships are unique environments that can facilitate the spread of illness. High passenger volumes and close quarters increase the risk of transmission. The CDC notes that exposure to contaminated food or water, as well as person-to-person contact, are common ways illnesses spread in these settings. The recent outbreaks on Cunard Line ships follow a similar incident on a Holland America cruise, where 75 passengers became ill just days before the first Cunard outbreak.

Despite the alarming nature of these incidents, Cunard Line has not released a statement addressing the outbreaks. The cruise line does require certain vaccinations for specific voyages, but it is unclear what additional measures, if any, will be implemented to ensure passenger safety moving forward.