The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)s laboratory has confirmed that the gastrointestinal illness that sickened more than 600 passengers and crew aboard Royal Caribbeans Explorer of the Seas this week during a cruise to the Caribbean was caused by norovirus.Â  

The CDC has been investigating the outbreak since last Sunday, but no particular source has been identified and its quite possible a source wont be identified.Â This outbreak represents one of the largest norovirus outbreaks in the past 20 years.

For more information about CDCs Vessel Sanitation Program, visit: 

Hand Hygiene

 hand hygiene page examines the practice of hand hygiene, from the proper methods to adherence among hospital staff. Will greater recognition of hand hygiene’s importance in curbing the spread of infections translate into better adherence among hospital staff and the public? This page features videos that demonstrate exactly how to conduct hand hygiene properly, articles recapping peer-reviewed literature on the latest advances in monitoring and adherence, as well as the popular "Bug of the Month" feature. 

CDC Confirms Illnesses Reported on Royal Caribbean Ship Caused by Norovirus