A gastrointestinal illness outbreak has impacted more than 90 passengers aboard a Royal Caribbean cruise ship returning to Tampa. The outbreak occurred on the Radiance of the Seas, which departed from Port of Tampa Bay on February 1. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), 89 passengers and two crew members have reported symptoms, raising concerns about the spread of the illness.
Illness Reported on Royal Caribbean’s Radiance of the Seas
The cruise ship outbreak has prompted swift action from both Royal Caribbean and onboard medical personnel. As the vessel prepares to return on February 8, enhanced health protocols have been implemented to prevent further spread.
In response, the crew has:
- Increased cleaning and disinfection procedures throughout the ship.
- Collected stool samples for laboratory testing to determine the cause of the illness.
- Isolated ill passengers and crew members to minimize exposure.
A Royal Caribbean Group spokesperson stated, “Enhanced measures have been implemented onboard in an abundance of caution to protect the health and comfort of all our guests and crew.”
Symptoms and Health Concerns
Passengers experiencing gastrointestinal illness have reported symptoms such as diarrhea and vomiting. While many cruise-related outbreaks are often linked to norovirus, Royal Caribbean has confirmed that this illness is not caused by norovirus. The exact source of the outbreak remains under investigation, with further testing underway.
Health and Safety Measures for Cruise Passengers
To ensure a safe and healthy cruising experience, passengers are advised to:
- Practice frequent handwashing with soap and water.
- Avoid close contact with individuals showing signs of illness.
- Report symptoms immediately to medical staff for timely intervention.
For more information on healthy cruising, visit Royal Caribbean’s official website.
Have you ever faced a health scare while traveling? With thousands of passengers onboard, cruise ships create the perfect storm for outbreaks. How prepared would you be?
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