A norovirus outbreak on the Princess Cruises-operated Ruby Princess cruise ship affected over 120 passengers and crew members, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).The outbreak, which was reported on June 28, 2026, resulted in 102 passengers (3.4%) and 23 crew members (2%) falling ill with symptoms like diarrhea, vomiting, and stomach pain.

The ship, which departed San Francisco on June 12 for a 20-day journey to Canada and Alaska, made a stop in Prince Rupert, British Columbia, before returning to San Francisco.Health officials noted that the Vessel Sanitation Program (VSP) classifies outbreaks when 3% or more passengers are affected.Princess Cruises implemented enhanced cleaning protocols, isolated sick individuals, and conducted stool tests.The Public Health Agency of Canada emphasized prevention measures like handwashing and surface disinfection.

This incident marks the seventh norovirus outbreak on a cruise ship in 2026, following similar cases on other Princess Cruises vessels earlier this year.The CDC recorded 13 such outbreaks in 2023, indicating this is not an unusual occurrence.The cruise industry continues to face challenges with viral outbreaks, prompting ongoing efforts to improve sanitation and passenger safety.