MIAMI – A worrying outbreak of norovirus affected nearly 100 individuals aboard the Royal Caribbean cruise ship Serenade of the Seas, which recently docked in South Florida. Health officials have reported that 94 passengers and four crew members were struck by the highly contagious virus during a 13-day journey that began on September 19, departing from San Diego and making stops in Mexico and Costa Rica before passing through the Panama Canal and arriving in Cartagena, Colombia.
The Serenade of the Seas docked at PortMiami early Thursday morning. Norovirus is known for causing gastrointestinal distress and spreads rapidly in confined spaces, such as cruise ships. Symptoms include diarrhea, vomiting, and overall weakness, which several passengers experienced after disembarking.
“When I started feeling funny in my stomach, it lasted about 36 to 48 hours,” said Margie, a passenger unable to contain her discomfort. Another passenger noted, “I got sick about four days before we arrived in Miami. We heard there were around 70 cases, but I knew it was more, as many friends I spoke to were also unwell but hadn’t reported it.” This indicates a widespread issue that may have gone unreported by some.
As per guidelines from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, cruise ships must report norovirus outbreaks, which the crew of the Serenade of the Seas did on Sunday. In response, measures were quickly implemented to contain the spread, including intensified cleaning protocols and isolating affected passengers.
One passenger reported, “When we were in Huatulco, Mexico, we were informed about the outbreak, and the crew began immediate cleaning. They quarantined areas of the ship and provided service instead of allowing us to self-serve.”
Despite the challenges posed by the outbreak, many passengers expressed gratitude for the crew’s efforts, highlighting the exemplary service they received during their time onboard. “They provided free room service and took excellent care of us,” Margie added.
The situation underscores the importance of health protocols on cruise ships, particularly in light of the rapid spread of contagious illnesses. The Serenade of the Seas is now scheduled to depart for Panama later today, with hopes that health and safety measures will effectively mitigate further outbreaks.