Norovirus Outbreak Affects 75 Individuals on Oceania Cruise
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A recent norovirus outbreak aboard the Oceania Insignia cruise ship has left over 70 people infected, as reported by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). According to a press release on October 21, 74 passengers on the ship’s 11-day voyage have reported symptoms of illness, accounting for approximately 11.6% of the 637 total passengers onboard. In contrast, only one out of 391 crew members has reported being ill, with symptoms predominantly including diarrhea and vomiting.
Embarking on its journey from Montreal on October 16, the Oceania Insignia is scheduled to dock in Boston on October 27, after battling the contagious virus. A spokesperson for the cruise line addressed the outbreak, confirming the presence of “acute gastroenteritis” among the affected individuals. The cruise operator has swiftly implemented CDC-approved protocols, focusing on treating passengers showing symptoms, intensifying cleanliness measures, and isolating those unwell to prevent further spread.
In response to the unfortunate outbreak, the cruise line has escalated its cleaning and disinfection practices as recommended by the CDC. Furthermore, all passengers and crew displaying symptoms have been quarantined to contain the spread of the virus. This incident is not an isolated one in the cruise industry, as gastrointestinal illnesses have plagued several ships over the year, with norovirus being a common culprit according to CDC reports.
The CDC has disclosed that out of the 20 gastrointestinal illness outbreaks reported on cruise ships under the Vessel Sanitation Program’s jurisdiction since the beginning of the year, 15 were attributed to norovirus. While such outbreaks represent a small fraction of overall cases, controlling norovirus on cruise ships poses unique challenges due to close communal living spaces and shared dining areas, creating an environment conducive to rapid transmission.
In a similar case last month, a Royal Caribbean ship encountered a norovirus outbreak, affecting 71 passengers and a crew member aboard the Serenade of the Seas. With 1,874 passengers and 883 crew members on board, the vessel reported the outbreak during a 13-night cruise that commenced in San Diego. The cruise operator reiterated its commitment to prioritizing guest and crew health and safety, acknowledging the rigor of their cleaning procedures in compliance with health guidelines.
As cruise operators continue to grapple with the challenges posed by contagious illnesses in the confined environment of a ship, proactive measures and stringent protocols are essential to mitigate outbreaks and safeguard the well-being of all onboard. The incidents serve as a reminder of the importance of maintaining high standards of hygiene and sanitation practices, not only for cruise industry stakeholders but also for the travellers who place their trust in these maritime adventures.
In conclusion, this unfortunate outbreak on the Oceania Insignia underscores the ongoing battle against norovirus on cruise ships, prompting industry players to remain vigilant in their efforts to prevent and manage such health crises effectively.