Norovirus Outbreak Sickens Nearly 90 on Holland America Cruise Ship
FORT LAUDERDALE, Fla. — The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has confirmed a norovirus outbreak aboard the Holland America Line’s Rotterdam cruise ship, marking the first such incident reported this year. Nearly 90 passengers and crew members fell ill during the vessel’s recent voyage from December 28, 2025, through January 9, 2026.
According to the CDC’s official report, 81 passengers and eight crew members experienced symptoms consistent with norovirus infection, including diarrhea and vomiting. The Rotterdam was carrying a total of 2,593 passengers and 1,005 crew at the time of the outbreak. The ship departed from Fort Lauderdale, Florida, and made stops at several ports including Curaçao, Colombia, Costa Rica, and Jamaica, as noted by CruiseMapper.
The cruise line notified the CDC of the outbreak on January 8, prompting the agency to investigate and confirm the spread of the virus. Norovirus is highly contagious and often spreads rapidly in closed environments such as cruise ships, where close contact and shared facilities facilitate transmission. The CDC routinely monitors and reports on such outbreaks to help protect public health and guide preventive measures.
Norovirus outbreaks are a common challenge for the cruise industry, which carries millions of passengers annually. The CDC’s Vessel Sanitation Program (VSP) works closely with cruise lines to identify and manage outbreaks, ensuring sanitation protocols are enforced to reduce the risk of infection. The VSP’s ongoing surveillance and response efforts are detailed on the CDC Vessel Sanitation Program website.
Passengers aboard the Rotterdam were advised of the outbreak and encouraged to practice rigorous hand hygiene and avoid close contact with others if symptoms developed. Holland America Line has implemented enhanced cleaning and disinfection procedures to contain the virus and protect the health of remaining passengers and crew.
Norovirus is often referred to as the “stomach flu,” though it is not related to influenza. It is the leading cause of gastroenteritis outbreaks worldwide and is known for its rapid onset and short duration. The CDC provides guidance on norovirus prevention and control, emphasizing handwashing with soap and water as the most effective defense, as outlined on their norovirus prevention page.
This incident underscores the ongoing public health challenges faced by the cruise industry, especially as travel rebounds to pre-pandemic levels. The CDC’s timely confirmation and public reporting aim to increase awareness and encourage vigilance among travelers and cruise operators alike.
For travelers considering cruises, the CDC recommends reviewing health advisories and outbreak updates before booking. The agency’s Cruise Ship Travel page offers comprehensive information on health and safety protocols.
As the cruise industry continues to navigate these challenges, cooperation between public health authorities and cruise operators remains critical to ensuring safe and enjoyable voyages for all passengers.
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