Reports from the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention have revealed that over 100 passengers and crew members on the Cunard cruise ship Queen Victoria have been affected by gastrointestinal illness during a three-week leg of a 107-night cruise.

The reported cases include 123 passengers and 16 crew members who have experienced symptoms such as diarrhea and vomiting. In response to the outbreak, the cruise line has implemented intensified cleaning and disinfection measures, as well as isolating those who have fallen ill.

Despite these efforts, the cause of the illness remains unknown, as stated in the CDC’s report. The Queen Victoria, which began its 107-night journey in Southhampton, England on January 11, is currently on a leg that departed from Fort Lauderdale, Florida on January 22. The voyage includes stops in Aruba, Guatemala, Cabo San Lucas, San Francisco, Hawaii, and is scheduled to conclude on February 12.

The ship is accommodating a total of 1,824 passengers and 967 crew members. Cunard Cruise Line has acknowledged the situation, stating that they have activated enhanced health and safety protocols to address the reported cases and ensure the well-being of all individuals on board. According to the cruise line, these measures have proven to be effective.

Incidents of illness on cruise ships have been a cause for concern, particularly in light of the ongoing pandemic. The cruise industry continues to face challenges in maintaining passenger and crew health and safety, with unruly behavior from some passengers adding to the complexities of these efforts.