A bout of
norovirus recently sickened more than 150 people aboard a Star
Princess sailing in the Caribbean,
according to NBC
News.
The outbreak
occurred during a weeklong cruise that concluded on Saturday, March 14, when the
vessel returned to Fort Lauderdale, Florida.
In total, 153 people displayed symptoms — including 104 passengers and 49 crew
members — according to a report
from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) released Thursday. Those
affected experienced typical norovirus symptoms, including diarrhea and
vomiting.
The incident was
reported to the CDC’s Vessel Sanitation Program on Wednesday, and investigators
from the program boarded the ship to look into the situation and ensure
appropriate health protocols were followed.
Princess
Cruises responded by stepping up sanitation measures across the vessel.
According to the CDC report, the cruise line carried out additional rounds of
cleaning and disinfection throughout the ship, while passengers and crew
members who became ill were isolated until they were able to disembark. Staff
also consulted with CDC officials on recommended procedures to control the
highly contagious virus and prevent further spread.
Despite the
incident, the ship continued its schedule. According to cruise-tracking site CruiseMapper,
the ship returned to Fort Lauderdale Saturday morning before embarking on its
next sailing later that same day, heading to Princess Cays in the Bahamas.
Norovirus is the
leading cause of outbreaks of diarrhea and vomiting in the United States,
according to the CDC. The virus spreads easily through direct contact with an
infected person, consuming contaminated food or drinks, or touching
contaminated surfaces and then touching one’s face.
Some simple
preventive steps can help reduce the risk of infection, the health agency says,
including frequent handwashing and disinfecting commonly touched surfaces.
The Star Princess
itself is one of the newest ships in Princess Cruises’ fleet. The
4,307-passenger vessel debuted just five months ago, launching its maiden
voyage from Europe
in October 2025. The ship features a distinctive glass dome over its concert
venue, and more than 30 bars and restaurants onboard.
The vessel was
formally christened the following month by actor Matthew McConaughey and his
wife, Camila McConaughey, who were named the ship’s official godparents.
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