Investigation Update on the Norwegian Dream

Investigation Update - December 13, 2004

On December 10, Norwegian Cruise Line reported an increased number of cases of gastrointestinal (GI) illness on the cruise ship, Norwegian Dream, for the voyage completed on December 12, 2004, (sailing dates: 12/05-12/12/2004) in New Orleans, LA.

On December 12, VSP staff boarded the ship in New Orleans to conduct a vessel inspection, consult with onboard medical staff, observe cleaning and disinfection procedures, and distribute a survey to determine the cause of illness and make recommendations. The ship's medical staff reported that 73 of 1749 (4.17%) passengers and 9 of 744 (1.21%) crew reported symptoms of gastrointestinal illnesses.

The vessel underwent extensive cleaning and disinfection. Norwegian Cruise Line provided updates to VSP throughout the following voyage; no significant levels of GI illnesses were reported. Stool specimens were collected and tested positive for norovirus.