Norovirus Outbreak Sickens 240+ People on Queen Mary 2 Cruise
A norovirus outbreak aboard the Queen Mary 2, a luxury cruise ship operated by Cunard Line, has infected over 240 people, including both passengers and crew members.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reported that 224 of the ship’s 2,538 passengers and 17 crew members fell ill during the month-long transatlantic voyage, which started on March 8. The cruise, which began in Southampton, U.K., included stops in New York and the Caribbean, before returning to the U.K. on April 6.
Symptoms and Impact of Norovirus
The passengers and crew who contracted norovirus experienced typical symptoms, including vomiting and diarrhea, caused by the highly contagious virus. The illness is known to spread easily in close-quarter environments like cruise ships, where people are in close proximity for long periods of time.
Norovirus is notorious for its rapid transmission, requiring only a few viral particles to infect someone. The virus can also survive on surfaces for several days, making it easier to spread through contaminated areas, like public restrooms and dining facilities.
Cunard’s Response to the Outbreak
Cunard Line has taken immediate action to contain the outbreak. The Queen Mary 2’s crew increased cleaning and disinfection protocols, isolated infected passengers and crew, and worked closely with the CDC’s vessel sanitation program. The company confirmed that while the outbreak was significant, measures to contain the virus had already shown promising results, with reported cases beginning to decline.
A statement from Cunard noted, “Thanks to the swift response from our crew and the additional measures that we have in place, we are already seeing a reduction in reported cases.”
Norovirus: A Common Issue on Cruise Ships
This outbreak is not an isolated incident. Norovirus has long been a frequent issue on cruise ships due to the enclosed nature of these vessels. Infectious disease expert Dr. William Schaffner explained that the virus thrives in environments where people gather in close quarters, making cruise ships particularly vulnerable to outbreaks. Since the start of 2025, the CDC has tracked 10 separate norovirus outbreaks on various cruise ships, underscoring the widespread nature of this issue.
Norovirus Symptoms and Risks
The virus leads to inflammation of the stomach and intestines, resulting in stomach pain, nausea, diarrhea, and vomiting. While the illness usually lasts 1 to 3 days, health experts caution that those who recover can still transmit the virus to others for up to two weeks. The illness can be particularly dangerous for young children and older adults, who are at higher risk for complications.
Ongoing Efforts and Future Precautions
As the Queen Mary 2 nears the end of its voyage, Cunard continues to monitor the situation and follow all CDC guidelines. The company and health officials are also preparing for any future outbreaks by enhancing preventive measures and maintaining strict hygiene standards aboard cruise ships.
Despite the challenges of dealing with such a contagious virus, officials are hopeful that the Queen Mary 2’s swift response and improved sanitation efforts will help contain the outbreak and prevent further cases as the cruise nears its end.
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