Cruise Ship Illness At Lowest Level Since 2001

It appears that industry efforts to reduce outbreaks of gastrointestinal illness onboard cruise ships have proved successful.  Outbreaks of illness onboard cruise ships sailing from U.S. ports dropped in 2010 to its lowest level since 2001.

According to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, there were 14 outbreaks of illnesses, such as norovirus, onboard cruise ships operating out of U.S. ports in 2010. This is an improvement from previous years, including 15 outbreaks in 2009 and in 2008, 21 outbreaks in 2007 and 34 in 2006.

The significant drop in reported cruise ship illnesses occurred while the number of people picking cruises as their vacation of choice continued to rise. The Cruise Lines International Association has estimated that nearly one million more people cruised in 2010 than in 2009.

According to reports, eight of the reported outbreaks were due to norovirus, which is a common stomach bug. Four of the outbreaks occurred on cruise ships operated by Celebrity Cruises.

Neither Princess Cruises nor Norwegian Cruise Line reported any outbreaks of illness in their 2010 sailings.

The number of cruise ship illnesses reported in 2010 was lower than in any year since 2001. In 2001, there were just four outbreaks reported.

Cruise Ship Injuries

If you have been injured as a passenger on a cruise ship, you need to consult with an experienced Houston cruise ship attorney. It is important that you are aware of your legal rights and options.

For more information, contact us today at 877.724.7800. 

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