A Royal Caribbean cruise ship sailing through the Caribbean Islands is experiencing a major outbreak, with nearly 100 passengers and crew members falling ill. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), those affected are being isolated after reporting symptoms of severe gastrointestinal distress.
Illness Outbreak on Radiance of the Seas
The CDC has confirmed that 91 individuals aboard the Radiance of the Seas have suffered from diarrhea and vomiting, common symptoms of gastrointestinal infections. Among the affected, two are crew members.
The ship, which set sail from Tampa’s downtown dock on February 1 for a seven-day voyage, was scheduled to return on February 8. The outbreak has raised concerns about the rapid spread of illness in confined spaces like cruise ships.
Royal Caribbean’s Response to the Outbreak
As per CDC regulations, Royal Caribbean is required to report cases of passenger-related medical issues. In response to the outbreak, the cruise line has implemented several health measures, including:
- Enhanced cleaning and disinfection to curb the spread of infection.
- Testing stool samples from affected passengers for further investigation.
- Isolating sick passengers and crew members to prevent further contamination.
- Coordinating with the CDC’s Vessel Sanitation Program (VSP) for additional cleaning guidelines.
The CDC has labeled this the sixth cruise ship illness outbreak in 2025, advising travelers to follow strict hygiene practices to avoid infections.
Unconfirmed Cause: Norovirus Suspected
Health officials have yet to determine the exact cause of the outbreak. However, preliminary assessments suggest that norovirus—a highly contagious virus known to spread rapidly on cruise ships—may be responsible.
Further lab tests on stool and vomit samples will confirm whether norovirus or another pathogen is at play. Until then, health experts emphasize the importance of hand hygiene and food safety on cruise vacations.
Royal Caribbean’s Official Statement
In a statement to FOX 13 News, a Royal Caribbean Group spokesperson assured that “enhanced measures have been implemented onboard in an abundance of caution to protect the health and comfort of all our guests and crew.”
Additionally, the company highlights that all its ships are equipped with licensed medical professionals, offering essential health services that meet or exceed standards set by the American College of Emergency Physicians Cruise Ship & Maritime Medicine Section.
What This Means for Future Cruise Travelers
With six cruise ship outbreaks already recorded in 2025, travelers are advised to be vigilant. The CDC recommends:
- Frequent handwashing with soap and water.
- Avoiding shared food and beverages in buffet settings.
- Reporting symptoms immediately to medical personnel onboard.
As the investigation continues, health experts stress the importance of staying informed and prepared when planning a cruise vacation.
Would you feel safe sailing on a cruise after hearing about this outbreak? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
WFLA initially published the story. Are you on social media? Check out our profile for more local news! Follow @TampaLatest for up-to-the-minute updates in Tampa, Florida.