Following the emergence of symptoms of gastrointestinal illness in numerous passengers, an alarm was raised on the ship with a capacity of 2,538. The outbreak, infecting nearly 9% of passengers, has been closely monitored by official institutions.

More than 200 passengers aboard the transatlantic cruise ship Queen Mary 2 displayed symptoms of gastrointestinal illness. Health authorities have initiated an active intervention against the outbreak. With a total of 2,538 passengers and 1,232 crew members on board, 224 passengers and 17 crew members fell ill during the journey. Primary symptoms of diarrhea and vomiting were reported, leading to passengers being diagnosed with norovirus. Gastrointestinal disease outbreaks are common on cruise ships due to close quarters and shared facilities.

NOROVIRUS DIAGNOSIS MADE Norovirus, a highly contagious virus, is one of the most common causes of such outbreaks. Early detection and containment efforts are critical in minimizing the outbreak and safeguarding public health. Cruise ships operating under U.S. jurisdiction are required to report outbreaks to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) once illness rates among passengers or crew exceed 3%.

9% OF PASSENGERS AFFECTED With nearly 9% of passengers infected on this journey, the outbreak prompted official monitoring of the ship. The Vessel Sanitation Program is overseeing the voyage remotely. In adherence to the outbreak prevention and response plan, Queen Mary 2 has heightened its cleaning measures. Affected passengers and crew have been isolated, and medical personnel collected stool samples for further analysis.