Over 200 Passengers Infected with Norovirus on Transatlantic Cruise

Over 200 Passengers Infected with Norovirus on Transatlantic Cruise

Recent reports have confirmed that more than 200 passengers aboard the Cunard cruise ship Queen Mary 2 are experiencing illness due to norovirus on a month-long transatlantic voyage. The ship, which set sail from Southampton in the United Kingdom on March 8, has been travelling toward New York before visiting multiple islands in the Eastern Caribbean.

Of the total 2,538 passengers on board, 224 have reported symptoms consistent with norovirus, and 17 crew members have also fallen ill. This information was disclosed in an alert from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).

Symptoms and Isolation Protocols

The primary symptoms observed among those infected include diarrhea and vomiting. According to the CDC, the affected passengers have been isolated to prevent further spread of the virus. As a precautionary measure, Cunard has ramped up its cleaning and sanitation protocols in response to this outbreak.

The Queen Mary 2 is scheduled to return to Southampton on Sunday, April 6. Given the ongoing situation, the CDC has been closely monitoring the health of passengers and crew.

Norovirus Overview and Transmission

Norovirus, commonly referred to as food poisoning or the stomach bug, is a highly contagious virus known for causing inflammation of the stomach and intestines. According to the CDC, norovirus is a leading cause of gastroenteritis in the United States.

Dr. Amber Charoen, a board-certified gastroenterologist with Gastro Health in Kennewick, Washington, has emphasized the virus’s contagious nature, stating that it can spread with just ten particles through contaminated food, vomit, or stool, as well as through person-to-person contact. Additionally, norovirus can linger on contaminated surfaces, utensils, or foods.

Chad D. Neilsen, MPH, director of Infection Prevention and Control at Nemours Children’s Health in Florida, explained that the combination of indoor settings, close physical contact, and high-density populations, like those often found on cruise ships, contributes to the rapid spread of norovirus.

Public Health Response

In the wake of this outbreak, the Vessel Sanitation Program (VSP) has been remotely overseeing the situation, ensuring that the ship’s outbreak response and hygiene protocols are effective. Early intervention is critical; however, once norovirus begins to spread, it becomes particularly challenging to contain without public health and sanitation expertise.

Despite its common name, norovirus is not related to influenza, often mistakenly referred to as the