Third Norovirus Outbreak Aboard National Geographic Sea Bird Affects 18 Passengers – 19 July 2026

A third gastrointestinal illness outbreak aboard National Geographic Sea Bird affected 18 passengers during a 10–15 July 2026 voyage in Alaska.

The CDC reported that 18 of the vessel’s 62 passengers became ill with symptoms including abdominal cramps and vomiting. The cause of the latest outbreak had not yet been identified, although the symptoms were consistent with earlier norovirus outbreaks aboard the expedition vessel.

The crew implemented enhanced cleaning and disinfection, isolated affected passengers and crew, and consulted the CDC’s Vessel Sanitation Program. Samples were collected to assist the investigation, and the CDC continued to monitor the incident.

• Eighteen passengers became ill during the July 10–15 Alaska voyage.
• The vessel had a total capacity of 62 passengers.
• Enhanced cleaning, isolation and CDC consultation measures were implemented.