Investigation Update on the Ryndam

Investigation Update on the Ryndam- February 12, 2004

Ryndam - Holland America Cruise Lines reported an increased number of cases of gastrointestinal illness (GI) on the cruise ship Ryndam, which sailed from San Diego, California February 7, 2004.

On February 11, Holland America contacted CDC’s Vessel Sanitation Program (VSP) staff to report that an unusual number of Ryndam passengers were experiencing GI. As of 8:41 a.m. EST on February 13, the ship’s medical staff had reported that 73 of 1260 (5.8%) passengers and 9 of 550 (1.64%) crew members were ill. Predominant symptoms were vomiting and diarrhea.

The vessel underwent extensive cleaning and disinfection, and Holland America provided daily reports to VSP; there was no significant GI illnesses reported reported on the following voyage. Stool specimens were submitted and tested positive for norovirus.