A significant outbreak of norovirus has impacted the luxury cruise ship AIDAdiva, with over 100 passengers and crew members affected. This incident occurred during the vessel’s ongoing 133-day voyage, which includes stops in the United States, England, Mexico, Japan, and South Africa. Out of the 2,007 guests and 640 staff aboard, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reported that the illness, characterized by severe vomiting and diarrhea, has resulted in increased health protocols on the ship.
The AIDAdiva set sail from Hamburg, Germany, on November 10, 2023, and is scheduled to continue its journey until March 2026. Reports indicate that the CDC was alerted to the outbreak on November 30, 2023. In response, the cruise line has implemented enhanced cleaning and disinfection procedures, as well as isolating those exhibiting symptoms. Stool specimens are being collected for testing to understand the outbreak better.
According to a spokesperson from AIDA Cruises, the timing of the outbreak coincides with seasonal illness trends. “Seasonal illness peaks between November and April, and the AIDAdiva report reflects infection patterns on land,” the spokesperson stated. They added that the cruise line has adopted more stringent hygiene protocols and noted a decline in new cases since these measures were implemented.
Cruise ships have historically been associated with outbreaks of gastrointestinal illnesses. This incident marks the 21st reported outbreak of norovirus on cruise ships this year, according to the CDC. In a separate incident, a Royal Caribbean ship experienced a similar outbreak in September, affecting 71 passengers and one crew member.
The CDC emphasizes the importance of reporting gastrointestinal illness on board cruise ships. “When passengers and crew inform the medical center about their symptoms, it helps detect GI illness outbreaks quickly, allowing for timely intervention,” the agency noted.
In a statement regarding health and safety measures, Royal Caribbean affirmed, “The health and safety of our guests, crew, and the communities we visit are our top priority. To maintain an environment that supports the highest levels of health and safety onboard our ships, we implement rigorous cleaning procedures, many of which far exceed public health guidelines.”
Passengers on the AIDAdiva are now facing the challenge of navigating the remainder of their voyage while adhering to health protocols designed to contain the outbreak. As the cruise continues its journey, the focus remains on ensuring the well-being of all those on board.
