Royal Caribbean Issues Health Warning After Legionnaires’ Disease Case on Cruise
Royal Caribbean has issued a health alert to passengers after a recent case of Legionnaires’ disease was linked to a sailing aboard the Symphony of the Seas. The cruise line is taking precautionary steps after a guest was diagnosed with the illness following their cruise, and communications have been sent to passengers who sailed during March and April 2025.
What Is Legionnaires’ Disease?
Legionnaires’ disease is a serious type of pneumonia caused by inhaling water droplets contaminated with Legionella bacteria. It is not spread person to person, but rather through mist or vapor from sources like hot tubs, showers, or decorative fountains where water systems have not been properly sanitized.
Most healthy individuals exposed to Legionella do not become ill, but those over 50, smokers, or people with weakened immune systems are at higher risk. Symptoms can include fever, cough, muscle aches, and shortness of breath, often developing within 2–10 days of exposure.
What Happened on the Symphony of the Seas?
In a letter sent to passengers, Royal Caribbean explained that while the CDC could not definitively determine where the guest was exposed to Legionella, the cruise line is acting out of an abundance of caution. Enhanced cleaning and sanitation protocols were put into place immediately, and the company stated it is fully complying with CDC guidelines.
This is not the first such incident aboard the Symphony of the Seas. In January 2025, Royal Caribbean issued a similar notification to guests after two previous passengers were diagnosed with Legionnaires’ disease following their sailings in October and December 2024.
Areas of Concern: Private Hot Tubs
According to the CDC, past investigations have linked some cruise-related cases of Legionnaires’ disease to private balcony hot tubs, which may not receive the same level of maintenance as public whirlpools. These units, while popular for their luxury appeal, have been identified as higher risk for Legionella growth if not rigorously cleaned and treated.
The CDC has recommended cruise operators include private hot tubs in routine safety inspections and maintenance programs. Royal Caribbean has not confirmed whether the latest case involved a private hot tub.
What Royal Caribbean Is Doing
Royal Caribbean emphasized that it is taking the matter seriously and is committed to guest health and safety. The cruise line has implemented precautionary measures, including testing water systems and reinforcing sanitation protocols across the ship. It also reminded passengers of the importance of medical consultation if they experience symptoms consistent with Legionnaires’ disease.
Passengers who recently sailed or plan to cruise aboard the Symphony of the Seas are encouraged to stay informed, monitor their health, and reach out to medical professionals if concerned. While such incidents remain rare, cruise lines are under growing scrutiny to ensure water quality and onboard safety standards remain uncompromised.
This report is based on publicly available information and CDC guidance. Royal Caribbean has not reported any new confirmed cases since the latest passenger notification.
This article was written by a human and edited with AI assistance.
