Norovirus Cases Reported on MS Westerdam in Hong Kong

Hong Kong health authorities initiated epidemiological monitoring on Sunday after a norovirus outbreak was identified aboard Holland America Line’s MS Westerdam during its visit to Kai Tak Cruise Terminal.

According to the Centre for Health Protection, the vessel arrived with 76 confirmed cases of acute gastroenteritis, affecting 65 passengers and 11 crew members. Reported symptoms since February 15 included vomiting, diarrhea and fever while the ship was sailing in waters near Japan, South Korea and mainland China.

Port Health officials boarded the vessel at around 4 a.m. local time after being alerted in advance by the cruise operator. Authorities immediately requested comprehensive medical reports from the ship’s healthcare team and held cross-departmental discussions to evaluate potential public health implications before docking procedures were completed.

In line with World Health Organization guidance, a temporary medical station was established at the cruise terminal to screen approximately 2,000 passengers disembarking the ship.

Laboratory analysis identified norovirus in seven stool samples. Officials described the overall situation as stable, noting that only three individuals displayed mild symptoms upon arrival and that no hospitalizations were required.

After passengers left the vessel, enhanced sanitation measures were implemented onboard. These included thorough cleaning and chemical disinfection of shared spaces, carried out under procedures consistent with the Ship Sanitation Program, an international framework for cruise ship health standards.

Authorities also highlighted that norovirus activity remains elevated in several parts of East Asia, particularly Japan and South Korea. As a precaution, additional training has been provided to cleaning staff on biohazard containment practices.