Gastrointestinal Illness Affects Almost 140 Passengers on Cruise Ship Queen Victoria

Over 100 passengers and crew members aboard the Queen Victoria, a Cunard Cruise Line ship, have reportedly fallen ill with gastrointestinal symptoms, including diarrhea and vomiting, during a three-week leg of a 107-night cruise, according to the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).

The CDC’s report indicates that 139 individuals on board, comprising 123 passengers and 16 crew members, have reported symptoms of gastrointestinal illness. The cruise line has responded by implementing heightened cleaning and disinfection measures, isolating affected passengers and crew, and taking steps to manage the situation.

The specific cause of the illness has not been determined, and investigations are ongoing, as per the CDC’s report. The affected cruise segment is part of a 107-night journey that commenced in Southampton, England, on January 11. The segment began in Fort Lauderdale, Florida, on January 22, with scheduled stops in Aruba, Guatemala, Cabo San Lucas, San Francisco, and Hawaii, concluding on February 12.

The Queen Victoria is accommodating a total of 1,824 passengers and 967 crew members during this extensive voyage. The cruise line, Cunard, has assured that it promptly activated enhanced health and safety protocols in response to the reported illnesses, aiming to ensure the well-being of all individuals on board.

Instances of gastrointestinal illness on cruise ships have garnered increased attention in recent years, prompting cruise lines to implement strict health and safety measures. The CDC closely monitors and investigates outbreaks on cruise ships to prevent the spread of contagious diseases and protect the health of passengers and crew.

Cruise ships, with their enclosed environments and shared spaces, can be conducive to the rapid transmission of illnesses. Cruise lines have been working to enhance sanitation practices, promote hygiene, and implement preventive measures to minimize the risk of infectious outbreaks on board.

For passengers, this incident underscores the importance of adhering to hygiene guidelines, such as frequent handwashing, using hand sanitizers, and reporting symptoms promptly to ship medical personnel. Cruise lines continue to refine their health and safety protocols, recognizing the significance of maintaining a healthy environment for all on board.

As investigations into the cause of the illness continue, the affected passengers and crew will likely receive medical attention and appropriate care. Cruise lines remain vigilant in their efforts to mitigate health risks and provide a safe and enjoyable experience for travelers.