A gastrointestinal outbreak has affected over 140 guests and crew members on a Royal Caribbean International cruise, with symptoms including vomiting, abdominal cramps, and diarrhea. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) is investigating the cause of the outbreak, but listed it as unknown. In response, Royal Caribbean implemented enhanced sanitation protocols, isolated sick individuals, and increased disinfection measures.
The ship was sailing a week-long cruise to Mexico when the outbreak occurred. This is the 18th gastrointestinal illness outbreak on cruises in 2025, with most cases caused by norovirus. Although cruise ships are often associated with these outbreaks, they represent only 1% of all reported cases. The CDC believes that the current season’s norovirus strain may be linked to land-based outbreaks, and is monitoring the situation closely.
Source: https://eu.usatoday.com/story/travel/cruises/2025/07/17/royal-caribbean-cruise-gastrointestinal-outbreak/85260376007