Investigation Update on the Crystal Symphony
Investigation Update - April 22, 2005
- Crystal Cruise Line reported an increased number of cases of gastrointestinal (GI) illness on the
cruise ship, Crystal Symphony, for the voyage completed on April 25, 2005, (sailing dates: 4/14-04/25/2005)
in Fort Lauderdale, FL.
- On April 19, 2005, Crystal Cruise Line contacted CDC’s Vessel Sanitation Program (VSP) staff to report
that an elevated number of Crystal Symphony passengers and crew members were experiencing GI illness. On
April 22, the ship’s medical staff reported that 20 of 570 (3.5%) passengers and 3 of 560 (0.5%) crew
members were ill. The predominant symptom was diarrhea.
- The ship's staff implemented additional cleaning procedures. Stool specimens were collected and tested
negative for bacteria. VSP staff boarded the vessel to conduct an onboard
investigation. Medical staff sent daily reports to CDC; the cases of gastrointestinal illness returned to expected levels
by the following voyage.