Illness outbreak 13 January 2025
Two Legionella Cases Reported on Royal Caribbean's Symphony of the Seas: Incident on 11 January 2025
What happened
Royal Caribbean International has notified passengers on Symphony of the Seas of two confirmed cases of Legionella involving previous passengers from separate voyages in October and December 2024. The source of the Legionella bacteria has not been determined; however, the cruise line has emphasised that the cases do not necessarily confirm that the individuals contracted Legionella aboard the ship.
Royal Caribbean is implementing enhanced sanitation measures as a precaution and following guidance from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) to protect guest health and maintain a safe onboard environment.
Details of the incident
Two confirmed cases of Legionella were identified among passengers from separate voyages aboard Symphony of the Seas in October and December 2024. Legionnaires' disease, caused by Legionella bacteria, is a severe type of pneumonia contracted by inhaling contaminated water droplets. Healthy individuals rarely develop the illness; however, those with weakened immune systems or underlying health conditions are at higher risk.
Vessel and voyage
Vessel
- Name: Symphony of the Seas
- Operator: Royal Caribbean International
- Type: Large cruise ship
Affected voyages
- October 2024 voyage
- December 2024 voyage
Casualties
Fatalities
- None reported.
Injuries
- Two confirmed cases of Legionella identified among previous passengers from separate voyages.
Rescued
- Not applicable to this incident.
Emergency response and preventive measures
Royal Caribbean has implemented enhanced sanitation measures across the vessel as a precautionary measure and is following guidance from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). The cruise line is actively communicating with affected passengers and reassuring guests that all necessary steps are being taken to protect their health and maintain a safe environment onboard.
Current status
The source of the Legionella bacteria remains under investigation. Royal Caribbean continues to monitor the situation and maintain heightened sanitation protocols aboard Symphony of the Seas.