A deadly norovirus outbreak on P&O Cruises’ Arcadia ship has left one passenger dead and dozens ill, highlighting a troubling trend in cruise ship health safety.
At a Glance
- Alan Forster, 77, died after contracting norovirus on P&O Cruises’ Arcadia
- 128 out of 1,959 passengers affected by the outbreak
- 2024 marks the worst year for stomach illness outbreaks on cruise ships in over a decade
- 16 outbreaks occurred from January to December, with 11 caused by norovirus
- CDC reports 890 cases across five outbreaks in the past month alone
Tragic Death Aboard P&O Cruises’ Arcadia
A norovirus outbreak on P&O Cruises’ Arcadia ship has led to the death of Alan Forster, a 77-year-old British retiree. Forster fell ill two weeks into a month-long cruise, experiencing severe symptoms including vomiting, diarrhea, and stomach pain. Despite reporting his condition, Forster’s health rapidly declined, resulting in his collapse a week later. He was eventually hospitalized in St. John’s, Canada, but succumbed to suspected kidney failure.
The outbreak affected 128 passengers out of 1,959 onboard, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). Forster’s family is now seeking accountability from the cruise line, expressing frustration over delays in medical care. P&O Cruises has expressed sympathy and confirmed an ongoing investigation into the incident.
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Cruise Passenger Dies Amid Norovirus Outbreak That Sickened Dozens
— Outbreak Updates (@outbreakupdates) January 6, 2025
2024: A Record Year for Cruise Ship Illnesses
The tragedy aboard the Arcadia is part of a larger, alarming trend. The CDC has classified 2024 as the worst year for stomach illness outbreaks on cruise ships in over a decade. In the past month alone, there were 890 cases of stomach illness across five recorded outbreaks, involving 781 passengers and 109 cruise employees. “Most outbreaks occur when infected people spread the virus to others through direct contact (such as caring for them, sharing food, or eating utensils with them),” according to the CDC.
The Ruby Princess was one of three cruise ships reporting a norovirus outbreak in the past month, along with Holland America Line’s Zuiderdam and Rotterdam.
The Challenge of Containing Norovirus
Norovirus is a highly contagious virus causing symptoms like vomiting and diarrhea. It’s distinct from influenza and can survive on surfaces for extended periods. While recovery typically takes one to three days, the virus remains contagious for days after symptoms subside.
“Following an outbreak of norovirus it’s vital that investigations are carried out on the failings on board the cruise ship as well as the delays with getting Alan the medical treatment he needed,” stated Jatinder Paul, representing the Forster family.
The CDC estimates about 2,500 norovirus outbreaks annually in the U.S., with 19 to 21 million cases, primarily from November to April. Experts emphasize that handwashing with soap and water is the best prevention method.
Cruise Line Responses and CDC Oversight
In response to these outbreaks, cruise lines have implemented increased cleaning and disinfection procedures. The CDC’s Vessel Sanitation Program regularly inspects cruise ships, scoring them out of 100 based on cleanliness and other factors. Out of 151 inspections in 2024, 23 required a second inspection, with an average score of 95.9. “We were saddened to receive a letter from solicitors informing us of the death of Mr Forster approximately three weeks after his disembarkation from Arcadia and making a claim for compensation,” stated a spokesperson for P&O Cruises.
The incident underscores the need for improved prevention measures and swift medical treatment for passengers on cruise ships. As the cruise industry grapples with these challenges, passengers are advised to take extra precautions to protect their health while traveling.
Sources:
Cruise ships witness worst year for stomach bug outbreaks in over a decade
Norovirus Outbreak Leaves One Passenger Dead And Dozens Sick On A Cruise Ship In US
Passenger dies after norovirus outbreak on P&O cruise
