Over 120 passengers and crew members were impacted by gastrointestinal illnesses that occurred on two upscale cruise ships, Oceania’s Nautica and Holland America’s Eurodam. As cruise ships continued to travel to their destinations, health precautions were tightened in response to norovirus-related illnesses.
In recent years, gastrointestinal outbreaks on Holland America’s Eurodam and Oceania’s Nautica have caused over 120 passengers to become ill, turning luxury cruises upside down.
The norovirus was identified as the cause of the vomiting and diarrhea symptoms reported by eight crew members and 86 passengers on board the Eurodam, which sailed from Port Everglades in Florida on December 30.
In the meantime, the reason for the illnesses that 16 crew members and 15 passengers experienced on Oceania’s Nautica, which sailed from Miami on December 23, is still unknown.
Working with the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), both cruise companies quickly instituted stricter sanitary guidelines. The ships were continuously disinfected, and passengers were urged to report any symptoms right once.
Both companies’ representatives underlined their dedication to upholding strict health and safety regulations.
According to the CDC, norovirus outbreaks, which are frequent in the cooler months, frequently take place in crowded settings like campuses, nursing homes, and cruise ships. However, just 1% of all norovirus outbreaks each year occur aboard cruise ships.
Both cruises are expected to end on time in spite of the delays. Experts advise travelers that the greatest prevention against the virus is to exercise proper hygiene, such as washing their hands frequently.
These occurrences serve as a reminder to tourists to put their health and safety first when enjoying the high seas as they get ready for their next journey.
