Norovirus outbreak strikes over 240 aboard Queen Mary 2
An epidemic broke out on the luxury cruise ship Queen Mary 2. More than 200 passengers and crew members fell ill with norovirus, which causes gastrointestinal issues, during the voyage from the United States to the United Kingdom.
What do you need to know?
- When and where did the epidemic break out? The norovirus outbreak on the Queen Mary 2 began on March 18, 10 days after the cruise started from Southampton and headed to New York, crossing the Caribbean Sea.
- How many people were infected? 224 out of 2,358 passengers and 17 out of 1,232 crew members were infected.
- What actions were taken? Those infected were isolated, and the crew conducted a thorough cleaning of the ship and implemented health protocols.
What steps were taken on board?
During the Queen Mary 2 cruise, which began on March 8, a norovirus epidemic broke out. This illness, known for spreading easily in places where people eat together, affected 224 passengers and 17 crew members. The first infections appeared on March 18, ten days after the vessel left the port of Southampton. It quickly became apparent that the infections were not isolated incidents, as more cases followed. To prevent further spread of the virus, those infected were isolated.
What are the symptoms of norovirus?
Norovirus causes gastrointestinal symptoms, which can be particularly severe on a rocking ship. A spokesperson for Cunard Line stated that all necessary steps have been taken to prevent further spread of the virus. "We are continuing to closely monitor the guests and, as a precaution, completed a comprehensive deep clean of the ship and immediately activated our enhanced health and safety protocols, which are proving to be effective," the spokesperson told LADBible.
Have other ships also reported norovirus cases?
Queen Mary 2 is not the only ship dealing with norovirus. Similar cases have been reported by a cruise ship operated by Seabourn Cruise Line.
