Investigation Update on the Norwegian Crown

Investigation Update - May 10, 2004

Norwegian Cruise Line reported an increased number of cases of gastrointestinal (GI) illness on the ship, Norwegian Crown, for the voyage completed on May 9, 2004, 2004 (sailing dates: 5/2-5/9/2004) in Philadelphia, PA.

On May 6, Norwegian Cruise Line contacted CDC’s Vessel Sanitation Program (VSP) staff to report that an unusual number of Norwegian Crown passengers were experiencing GI illness. On May 9, the ship’s medical staff reported that 39 of 1070 (3.64%) passengers and 6 of 541 (1.11%) crew members were ill.

The vessel underwent extensive cleaning and disinfection. Norwegian Cruise Line provided special daily reports regarding any GI illness throughout the next cruise; no significant levels of GI illnesses were reported. Stool specimens were collected and tested positive for norovirus.