Investigation Update on the Norwegian Crown

Investigation Update - April 1, 2004

Norwegian Cruise Line reported an increased number of cases of gastrointestinal (GI) illness on the ship, Norwegian Crown, for the voyage completed on April 4, 2004 (sailing dates: 3/22-4/04/2004) in Philadelphia, PA.

On March 31, 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. At 9:05 a.m., EST April 2, the ship’s medical staff reported that 45 of 1018 (4.38%) passengers and 8 of 546 (1.47%) crew members were ill. The predominant symptoms were diarrhea, and vomiting.

The vessel underwent extensive cleaning and disinfection. Lab specimens were submitted and tested positive for norovirus. Norwegian Cruise Line provided special daily reports to VSP throughout the next cruise; elevated levels of GI illnesses were reported for a voyage two weeks later ( April 17-May 2).