Health Notice Issued for Symphony of the Seas Guests
Royal Caribbean has issued a health advisory for passengers set to sail aboard the Symphony of the Seas on April 30, after a guest from a previous cruise was diagnosed with Legionnaires’ disease.
Guests booked on the upcoming nine-night Eastern Caribbean sailing from Cape Liberty, New Jersey, received a letter informing them of the situation. The cruise line emphasized that passenger safety and well-being remain its top priority.
The advisory was released in accordance with guidance from the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), which alerted the cruise line to the case.
“While they are unsure where the guest was exposed, a individual who recently sailed on Symphony of the Seas was later diagnosed with Legionella,” the letter reads. “As a precautionary measure, we implemented heightened sanitation protocols and followed all CDC guidance.”
Royal Caribbean explained that Legionnaires’ disease is not contagious between people. It is contracted by breathing in microscopic water droplets containing the Legionella bacteria, which can be found in both natural and artificial water sources such as lakes, hot tubs, fountains, and public water systems.
The source of the exposure has not been confirmed, and the cruise line has not stated whether it originated on the ship or at any of the ports visited during the prior sailing. However, enhanced cleaning and disinfection measures have already been carried out aboard Symphony of the Seas.
Legionnaires’ disease is a serious respiratory illness. Symptoms may include:
- Persistent cough
- Headaches
- Muscle aches
- Difficulty breathing
- Fever
“Most healthy individuals exposed to Legionella do not develop illness,” Royal Caribbean stated. “If you experience these symptoms and have concerns, please contact your medical provider.”
The CDC advises anyone with concerns about potential exposure to seek advice from healthcare professionals or visit cdc.gov/legionella for more information.