What was meant to be a relaxing luxury cruise quickly turned into a health emergency after more than 140 people on board fell ill with a sudden gastrointestinal illness. The outbreak affected 134 passengers and 7 crew members during a week-long voyage that departed from Los Angeles and toured the Mexican coast, reports Fox Business.
Dream Cruise Turns to Disaster
Passengers began reporting symptoms such as vomiting, stomach cramps, and diarrhea while still at sea. By the time the ship returned to port on July 11, the outbreak had become a full-scale public health concern, prompting an investigation by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
Officials have yet to determine the exact cause of the illness, though gastrointestinal outbreaks on cruise ships are commonly linked to viruses like norovirus. Stool samples have been collected and are currently being analyzed in CDC laboratories to identify the source.
In response to the incident, the ship’s crew implemented enhanced sanitation protocols, including deep cleaning of shared spaces, isolation of sick passengers, and ongoing disinfection measures. The crew also worked in coordination with CDC health officials on board to monitor and manage the situation.
A spokesperson for the cruise operator confirmed that health and safety measures were in place before the voyage and were reinforced immediately after the outbreak began. Passengers were informed of the situation and advised to follow hygiene guidelines to limit further spread.
This marks the 18th gastrointestinal illness outbreak reported on cruise ships in 2025, matching the total from the previous year and continuing a trend of heightened vigilance in cruise travel health monitoring. While cruise-related outbreaks tend to gain widespread attention, they represent a small fraction of gastrointestinal illness cases nationally.
Health authorities continue to monitor the passengers and crew affected, and further updates are expected once lab results are finalized. In the meantime, travelers are being reminded of the importance of hand hygiene and reporting symptoms early when aboard cruise vessels.
Did you subscribe to our daily Newsletter?
It’s Free Click here to Subscribe!
Source: Fox Business
