Norovirus Outbreak on Holland America Line’s Eurodam Cruise Ship

Dozens of passengers and crew members on the Holland America Line’s Eurodam have reported symptoms consistent with norovirus during its current voyage originating from Florida. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) Vessel Sanitation Program, 79 passengers and 9 crew members have fallen ill aboard the ship.

Voyage Details

The Eurodam departed from Port Everglades, Florida, on February 19, and is scheduled to complete a ten-day journey with multiple stops across the Caribbean, returning on March 1. As the virus emerged, the cruise vessel, which accommodates 2,057 passengers and 834 crew members, is actively working to contain the situation.

Response to the Outbreak

The predominant symptoms reported include diarrhea and vomiting. In response, the Eurodam’s crew has implemented enhanced cleaning protocols, isolated affected individuals, and is collecting stool samples for testing. A spokesperson for Holland America Line noted, “During its current voyage, a number of guests onboard Eurodam reported symptoms of gastrointestinal illness. The cases were mostly mild and quickly resolved.”

Effective Sanitation Measures

In conjunction with the CDC, the crew has ramped up sanitation efforts, including continuous disinfection of public areas and facilities aboard the ship. They will maintain communication with the Vessel Sanitation Program to ensure safety measures are upheld and to report any further cases of illness.

Understanding Norovirus

Norovirus is known for its highly contagious nature, resulting in severe gastrointestinal symptoms such as vomiting and diarrhea. Most individuals recover within one to three days, but they may remain contagious for several days afterward. Other symptoms can include stomach pain, fever, nausea, headaches, and body aches. Dehydration is also a common concern among those infected.

Recent Trends in Norovirus Cases

This year’s surge in norovirus infections has been particularly notable across the United States. The CDC reported that infection rates in January were more than double those recorded in the same period last year.

Recent Related Incidents

This incident marks the second outbreak involving a Holland America ship in February. Prior to the Eurodam, the Rotterdam, which left Port Everglades on February 2, reported 19 crew members and 166 passengers experiencing similar symptoms. Additionally, the Vessel Sanitation Program has responded to three other norovirus outbreaks this year:

• Princess Cruises’ Coral Princess: 128 passengers and 20 crew members infected in January.
• Viking Ocean Cruises’ Viking Mars: 62 passengers and 9 crew members affected.
• Holland America Line’s Volendam: 93 passengers and 11 crew members reported illness earlier this year.

Conclusion

The situation aboard the Eurodam continues to be monitored closely, with enhanced sanitation measures in place to protect the health of passengers and crew members. Cruise-goers are advised to remain vigilant and report any symptoms to onboard medical staff.