Over 90 guests and crew members on a Royal Caribbean cruise fell ill because of a gastrointestinal outbreak. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, an investigation has been initiated to identify the cause of the illness aboard the Radiance of the Seas.
According to passengers, severe stomach cramps, vomiting, and diarrhea were some of the symptoms that manifested. Medical personnel on board had already started containment measures.
What happened on the cruise?
The outbreak was during a recent cruise of Radiance of the Seas, which had been operating on a multi-day Caribbean itinerary.
Reports say that:
- At least 68 passengers and 25 crew members became ill.
- The CDC Vessel Sanitation Program (VSP) was alerted as symptoms spread.
- Medical teams implemented sanitation measures to further limit infections.
Passengers with gastrointestinal distress were asked to self-isolate in their cabins. Meanwhile, the crew increased its cleaning protocols for common areas.
What Caused the Outbreak?
The cause is still undetermined, but some of the most common causes of gastrointestinal outbreaks on cruise ships include:
- Norovirus: A highly contagious virus with strains that can be easily passed along through contaminated food, water, or surfaces.
- Severe stomach disease-causing agents by foodborne bacteria such as E. coli and Salmonella.
- Person-to-person spread, especially in the confined spaces of a cruise ship.
- The CDC has taken samples to identify the pathogen responsible.
Royal Caribbean stated that they are fully cooperating with health officials and took immediate measures to protect the passengers and prevent further spread.
They implemented the following:
- Increased sanitation protocol in the dining area and other public places
- Recommendations for quarantining those who have been infected
- Additional medical personnel for increased surveillance and treatment.
According to Royal Caribbean, a spokesperson stated that the cruise line adheres to high standards of health and safety and strictly follows CDC guidelines to reduce the impact of outbreaks.
What This Means for Cruise Travelers
Gastrointestinal illnesses are common on cruise ships where thousands of passengers share buffets, restrooms, and recreational spaces. However, proper hygiene and food safety practices can help prevent infections.
Tips for Staying Safe on a Cruise:
- Wash hands often with soap and water, especially before eating.
- Use hand sanitizer if soap and water are not available.
- Avoid buffet lines if illness has been reported.
- Hydrate and seek medical attention if symptoms arise.
What’s Next?
The CDC will continue to trace the source of the outbreak while Royal Caribbean will sanitize the ship before its next voyage.
For now, passengers on upcoming sailings of Radiance of the Seas are requested to stay up to date with CDC travel alerts and any new health advisories.
A gastrointestinal outbreak from time to time reminds us of the risks to health resulting from traveling by cruise. Royal Caribbean is already doing its best to control the illness; however, travelers should never become complacent and should strictly follow sanitary procedures to reduce the risks on future cruises.
