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Introduction
A norovirus outbreak aboard Holland America Line’s (HAL) MS Rotterdam has affected 93 individuals during a recent Southern Caribbean cruise, marking the line’s fourth such incident in 2025. According to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), 89 passengers and 4 crew members reported symptoms consistent with the highly contagious gastrointestinal illness. The voyage, which departed from Fort Lauderdale, Florida, on March 7, 2025, concluded on March 16, with enhanced sanitation measures implemented to curb further transmission. This outbreak underscores the ongoing challenges cruise lines face in managing public health risks, particularly on vessels with large passenger capacities.
Details of the Incident
The MS Rotterdam embarked on a Southern Caribbean itinerary from Fort Lauderdale on March 7, 2025, carrying 2,670 passengers and an undisclosed number of crew members. During the voyage, 89 passengers and 4 crew members reported symptoms including vomiting and diarrhea, indicative of norovirus. The outbreak was confirmed by the CDC, which tracks gastrointestinal illnesses on cruise ships meeting specific notification criteria.
Upon the ship’s return to Fort Lauderdale on March 16, Holland America Line conducted a full disinfection of the vessel in coordination with the CDC. Enhanced sanitation protocols were implemented during the voyage, including isolating affected passengers and crew members to prevent further spread of the virus. Samples were collected for laboratory analysis to confirm the presence of norovirus and identify potential sources of contamination.
This marks the second norovirus outbreak on the MS Rotterdam in 2025, following a similar incident in February. As of early 2025, the CDC has documented 10 outbreaks of gastrointestinal illness on cruise ships, with most cases attributed to norovirus.
Key Takeaways:
- A norovirus outbreak aboard *MS Rotterdam* affected 89 passengers and 4 crew members during a Southern Caribbean cruise, concluding on March 16, 2025.
- This marks the second norovirus incident on the *MS Rotterdam* in 2025 and the fourth for Holland America Line this year.
- Holland America Line implemented enhanced sanitation measures, isolated affected individuals, and conducted a full vessel disinfection upon returning to Fort Lauderdale.
- The CDC has documented 10 gastrointestinal outbreaks on cruise ships in 2025, with most cases attributed to norovirus.
- Industry experts emphasize the need for stricter hygiene practices and proactive measures to prevent future outbreaks on cruise ships.