A norovirus epidemic on Holland America’s Rotterdam ship during its 12-day Panama Canal passage turned a luxurious cruise into a nightmare for around 120 passengers and crew members.
Twelve staff members and 107 passengers became ill, with severe diarrhea and vomiting, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
To stop the spread, the ship promptly put emergency sanitary measures in place after leaving Fort Lauderdale, Florida, on February 2.
The Reasons Cruises Are At Risk for Norovirus
Health experts claim that congregate environments such as nursing homes, colleges, and cruise ships provide the perfect environment for norovirus epidemics.
Despite making up only 1% of all outbreaks, cruises frequently garner media attention because of their enclosed rooms and communal dining areas.
The Cruise Line’s Reaction
Holland America intensified ship-wide cleaning procedures and promptly segregated ill guests. Visitors were reassured by a spokesman that the majority of cases were minor and swiftly resolved.
Because no one wants their vacation to be marred by an unanticipated illness at sea, visitors are advised to take extra hygiene precautions in light of the seven outbreaks aboard cruise ships documented thus far in 2025.
