The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has confirmed an outbreak of an undisclosed illness on a cruise ship operated by Cunard Line. A total of 135 people were affected by the illness during the voyage on Cunard Line’s Queen Victoria between January 22 and February 12. The CDC clarified that the reported cases may not reflect the actual number of symptomatic gastrointestinal cases at any given port or at the end of the journey. In response, Cunard Cruise Line has pledged to enhance cleaning and disinfection procedures on the ship and isolate affected passengers and crew members.
Norovirus outbreaks, which are often associated with healthcare facilities, long-term care facilities, restaurants, childcare centers, schools, and cruise ships, may increase by up to 50 percent if a new strain of the virus emerges, according to the CDC. Moreover, the CDC states that over 90 percent of outbreaks of diarrheal disease on cruise ships are caused by norovirus.
Regarding booking trends, Cunard Cruise Line assures that it has not been affected by the current Red Sea situation, mentioning that no transits are scheduled in the region until November. Other cruise operators, including Royal Caribbean and MSC Cruises, have also decided to cancel trips in the area due to escalating tensions.
In summary, the CDC has confirmed an outbreak of an unknown illness on a cruise ship, affecting 135 individuals. Cunard Line is implementing additional cleaning measures and isolating affected passengers and crew members. Norovirus is known to cause a significant number of gastrointestinal cases on cruise ships, with more than 90 percent of such outbreaks being attributed to the virus. Cruise operators are also adjusting their routes in response to geopolitical tensions, with Cunard Cruise Line emphasizing that it remains unaffected by current booking trends in the region.
