Gastrointestinal Illness Outbreak Affects Over 70 on P&O’s Arcadia - 22 September 2024

During September 2024, a gastrointestinal illness outbreak affected over 75 individuals aboard P&O Cruises' Arcadia during a month-long voyage from Southampton, UK, to the United States and Canada. The outbreak, which began shortly after the vessel's departure on 3 September 2024, prompted immediate health advisories and enhanced sanitization protocols across the ship.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) documented the outbreak, with the source remaining under investigation at the time of reporting. P&O Cruises implemented preventive measures and maintained communication with passengers and crew throughout the incident.

Sixty-five passengers and 10 crew members experienced gastrointestinal symptoms including vomiting and diarrhea during the voyage. The outbreak emerged during the early stages of the month-long itinerary and prompted the cruise line to issue health advisories to all onboard personnel.

Affected

• 65 passengers reported gastrointestinal symptoms
• 10 crew members reported gastrointestinal symptoms

Fatalities

• None reported.

Injuries

• 75 individuals (65 passengers and 10 crew) experienced gastrointestinal illness with symptoms of vomiting and diarrhea.

Rescued

• Not applicable — vessel remained operational throughout the outbreak.

P&O Cruises responded proactively by issuing health advisories to all passengers and crew. The cruise line implemented stringent sanitization measures across the vessel and emphasized the importance of reporting new cases and adhering to hand hygiene protocols. The operator maintained ongoing communication with affected individuals throughout the voyage.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) documented and investigated the outbreak. The source of the gastrointestinal illness remained under investigation at the time of reporting.