More than 100 people aboard a Princess Cruises ship traveling to Florida have reported illnesses linked to a norovirus outbreak, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
The outbreak occurred on the Caribbean Princess cruise ship, which departed Port Everglades in Florida on April 28 and is scheduled to return to Port Canaveral on May 11.
Health officials said both passengers and crew members have been affected.
Cases
According to the CDC, as of May 7:
| Group | Reported Illnesses |
|---|---|
| Passengers | 102 |
| Crew Members | 13 |
| Total Cases | 115 |
The ship was carrying approximately 3,116 passengers, meaning reported passenger illnesses accounted for about 3.3% of travelers onboard.
Most individuals affected reportedly experienced symptoms commonly associated with norovirus, including diarrhea and vomiting.
Virus
Norovirus is considered one of the leading causes of foodborne illness in the United States.
The virus spreads easily through:
- Direct contact with infected individuals
- Contaminated food or water
- Touching contaminated surfaces
The CDC notes that symptoms typically begin between 12 and 48 hours after exposure.
Additional symptoms can include:
| Common Symptoms | |
|---|---|
| Stomach pain | Nausea |
| Headaches | Fever |
| Vomiting | Diarrhea |
Although norovirus can spread rapidly in enclosed environments such as cruise ships, most people recover within a few days without requiring medical treatment.
Response
Princess Cruises has taken several steps in response to the outbreak, according to the CDC.
The company reportedly increased sanitation and cleaning procedures throughout the ship while also isolating passengers and crew members who became ill.
Cruise operators commonly implement enhanced cleaning measures during gastrointestinal outbreaks because the virus can survive on surfaces and spread quickly in shared spaces.
The CDC’s Vessel Sanitation Program monitors outbreaks on cruise ships operating in U.S. waters and works with cruise lines during investigations and response efforts.
Cruises
Cruise ships can be particularly vulnerable to outbreaks because passengers and crew live in close quarters and often share dining areas, recreation spaces, and common facilities.
Norovirus outbreaks on cruise ships receive national attention partly because infections can spread rapidly before containment measures are fully implemented.
Health officials generally advise cruise passengers to:
- Wash hands frequently with soap and water
- Avoid touching shared surfaces unnecessarily
- Report symptoms quickly to onboard medical staff
- Stay isolated if feeling ill
Alcohol-based hand sanitizers may help reduce some germs but are considered less effective against norovirus than proper handwashing.
Monitoring
The CDC continues monitoring the situation aboard the Caribbean Princess as the ship prepares to return to Florida.
At this time, no serious complications or hospitalizations related to the outbreak have been publicly reported.
Officials say gastrointestinal illness outbreaks are tracked closely to help prevent wider spread and identify possible sources of contamination.
The investigation into the outbreak remains ongoing.
FAQs
How many people became sick on the cruise?
A total of 115 passengers and crew became ill.
What virus caused the outbreak?
The outbreak was linked to norovirus.
Which cruise ship was affected?
The Caribbean Princess cruise ship was affected.
What symptoms were reported?
Passengers reported vomiting and diarrhea.
What actions did Princess Cruises take?
The company increased cleaning and isolated sick people.
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