On February 4th, 2025, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reported a gastrointestinal illness outbreak aboard RCI-Royal Caribbean's Radiance of the Seas.
The vessel, which embarked from Tampa Florida USA on February 1st for a 7-day Western Caribbean itinerary, had 89 out of 2164 passengers (~4.1%) and 2 out of 910 crew (0.2%) reporting symptoms such as diarrhea and vomiting. The causative agent remains undetermined.
In response, RCI implemented enhanced cleaning and disinfection protocols in line with their outbreak prevention and response plan. Affected individuals were isolated, and stool specimens were collected for testing to identify the illness's source. RCI also consulted with the CDC's Vessel Sanitation Program to ensure proper sanitation procedures were followed.
This incident marks the 6th GI outbreak on a cruise ship meeting the CDC's public notification threshold (3%) in 2025, following 18 similar outbreaks in 2024, many linked to Norovirus.
Despite these incidents, the CDC notes that cruise ships account for only about 1% of all reported gastrointestinal illness cases.
The CDC emphasizes the importance of reporting symptoms to onboard medical centers promptly. Early detection allows for swift action to limit the spread of illness, including isolating affected individuals and enhancing sanitation measures.
As the investigation continues, the cruise industry remains vigilant in implementing health protocols to ensure passenger and crew safety.
For more Radiance of the Seas incidents and accidents see the ship's CruiseMinus page.