What are the main symptoms of norovirus on a cruise ship like the Rotterdam?

The main symptoms of norovirus on the Rotterdam cruise ship were diarrhea and vomiting.

How common are norovirus outbreaks on Holland America Line cruises?

While norovirus is often associated with cruises, outbreaks on ships like Holland America Line's represent a small percentage of total reported outbreaks.

Where do norovirus outbreaks most frequently occur?

Norovirus outbreaks most frequently occur in community settings where people are in close contact, such as daycares and nursing homes.

Home / Health / Norovirus Outbreak Strikes Cruise Ship

Norovirus Outbreak Strikes Cruise Ship

11 Jan

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Summary

Nearly 90 people were sickened during a norovirus outbreak on a cruise ship.
The cruise ship had stops in multiple international locations.
Norovirus cases are more frequently diagnosed in close-contact settings.

A recent norovirus outbreak aboard Holland America Line's Rotterdam ship sickened nearly 90 individuals, including 81 guests and 8 crew members. The affected voyage, from December 28 to January 9, included stops in several international destinations. Symptoms primarily consisted of diarrhea and vomiting.

Holland America Line stated that the cases were largely mild and resolved swiftly. The cruise line conducted thorough sanitization of the ship as per CDC protocols upon its return to Fort Lauderdale. This incident highlights the prevalence of norovirus in environments where people are in close proximity.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reported 23 gastrointestinal illness outbreaks requiring public notification in 2025, with norovirus causing 17 of them. While associated with cruises, these incidents are rare compared to community outbreaks in places like daycare facilities and nursing homes.