Investigation Update on the M/V Explorer

Investigation Update - December 8, 2004

The M/V Explorer reported an increased number of cases of gastrointestinal (GI) illness on the cruise ship for the voyage completed on December 8, 2004, (sailing dates: 6/19-12/8/2004) in Port Everglades, FL.

On December 7, the M/V Explorer contacted CDC’s Vessel Sanitation Program (VSP) staff to report that an unusual number of passengers and some crew members were experiencing GI illness. At 3:00 p.m., ET, on December 7, the ship’s medical staff reported that 71 of 758 (9.37%) passengers and 1 of 195 (0.51%) crew members were ill. Predominant symptoms were diarrhea and vomiting.

The vessel underwent extensive cleaning and disinfection.