Investigation Update on the Norwegian Crown

Investigation Update - April 30, 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 2, 2004 (sailing dates: 4/25-5/2/2004) in Philadelphia, PA.

On April 29, 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 3:30 a.m., ET, on May 2, the ship’s medical staff reported that 43 of 1109 (3.88%) passengers and 2 of 536 (0.37%) crew members were ill.

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 the following voyage (May 5-9).