CDC Reports Gastrointestinal Illness Outbreak on Radiance of the Seas

The US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has confirmed an outbreak of gastrointestinal illness aboard Radiance of the Seas, a Royal Caribbean International cruise ship.

According to the CDC, 89 out of 2,164 passengers (4.1%) and two of the 910 crew members have reported symptoms, primarily diarrhea and vomiting. The agency has not yet identified the specific cause of the outbreak.

The voyage, which began on February 1, is set to conclude on Saturday. The illness was reported to the CDC’s Vessel Sanitation Program on Tuesday. The ship departed from Tampa, Florida, and has made stops at various western Caribbean ports.

In response, sick passengers and crew have been isolated, and the ship has implemented enhanced cleaning and disinfection procedures. Additionally, stool samples have been collected for testing. A Royal Caribbean Group spokesperson assured that “enhanced measures have been implemented” as a precautionary step to protect passengers and crew.

The CDC notes that norovirus is a common cause of gastrointestinal outbreaks on cruise ships, though confirming the exact pathogen can take time. Given the recent surge in norovirus cases, the agency advises frequent handwashing, adequate rest, and hydration to prevent the spread of illness.