Norovirus Sickens 74 on Oceania Insignia; Docking Planned

The Oceania Insignia experienced a norovirus outbreak that sickened 74 of 637 passengers and one crew member. After consulting with the U.S. CDC and Maine CDC, officials said cases are declining, the CDC confirmed ship staff are effectively responding, and the vessel may dock at Portland’s Ocean Gateway terminal on Oct. 26 as planned. Sick passengers are being isolated in cabins and the ship is undergoing heightened cleaning and disinfection; officials say there is no reason for public alarm but remind people that handwashing is the best prevention. Norovirus causes acute gastroenteritis with vomiting and diarrhea that typically resolves in 1–3 days and spreads easily via contaminated surfaces, food, water or utensils. The outbreak is one of about 20 gastrointestinal outbreaks on cruise ships reported to the CDC this year, and the Insignia is scheduled to continue to Boston around Oct. 27.