Norwegian Cruise Line Warns Passengers After Legionnaires’ Disease Cases Linked to Norwegian Epic in Europe and the United States

Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL) has recently issued a health advisory to both current and former passengers of the Norwegian Epic, one of its largest vessels, following two confirmed cases of Legionnaires’ disease. The illness, a severe form of pneumonia caused by exposure to Legionella bacteria, was reported among travelers who had recently completed sailings on the 4,100-passenger ship.

The notice was circulated on November 4, 2025, during the vessel’s 12-night Mediterranean voyage from Rome to Lisbon, with additional notifications sent to guests who had sailed on earlier cruises. The situation has prompted a comprehensive investigation, conducted in partnership with the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) in the United States, to determine whether the source of exposure originated from the ship’s water systems or elsewhere.

The health advisory has raised concern within the cruise and tourism industry, particularly as the Norwegian Epic prepares for upcoming sailings across Europe and the Caribbean. Despite the ongoing investigation, the ship continues to operate under enhanced health protocols.

Investigation Underway with CDC Collaboration

In response to the confirmed cases, Norwegian Cruise Line initiated standard health and safety procedures in coordination with the CDC, based in Atlanta, Georgia. The collaboration involves extensive environmental testing across all water-related fixtures onboard, including showers, faucets, and whirlpools. These are the most common sources through which Legionella bacteria can thrive and spread via microscopic water droplets.

Samples have been collected from various systems for laboratory analysis, and results will determine whether remedial measures are required. Although the cause of exposure remains undetermined, the cruise line has emphasized its commitment to transparency and guest safety throughout the process.

The CDC’s Vessel Sanitation Program, a key body responsible for health oversight on cruise ships visiting U.S. ports, has been providing technical support to NCL. This collaboration underscores the importance of stringent monitoring and preventive actions to safeguard the well-being of passengers and crew.

Understanding Legionnaires’ Disease

Legionnaires’ disease is a respiratory infection that can develop after inhaling water droplets contaminated with Legionella bacteria. The condition is not spread through person-to-person contact, but rather through exposure to contaminated water systems. These can include hot tubs, showers, decorative fountains, or air-conditioning systems that rely on water reservoirs.

Symptoms usually appear two to fourteen days after exposure and often resemble those of pneumonia. Common signs include fever, cough, muscle pain, shortness of breath, and headaches. Individuals at higher risk include those aged 50 and older, smokers, people with chronic lung conditions, and those with weakened immune systems.

Although potentially severe, the infection is treatable with specific antibiotics once properly diagnosed. Prompt medical care is crucial, particularly for individuals with pre-existing health vulnerabilities.

Guidance for Current and Former Passengers

Passengers currently sailing on the Norwegian Epic have been advised to remain alert for symptoms of respiratory illness. The ship’s medical team is available around the clock to evaluate any health concerns that may arise during the voyage. Those who have already disembarked have been urged to monitor their health for up to two weeks following their trip and to seek medical care immediately if symptoms occur.

Travelers are encouraged to share the notification letter from Norwegian Cruise Line with their healthcare providers. Doing so ensures that medical professionals are aware of the potential exposure and can order appropriate diagnostic tests for Legionella bacteria.

Passengers considered to be at greater risk have been given the option to reschedule upcoming cruises if desired. Additionally, individuals using respiratory devices or humidifiers have been advised to use distilled water rather than tap water as a precautionary measure.

Continued Cruise Operations

Despite the advisory, operations aboard the Norwegian Epic remain ongoing. The vessel’s next scheduled itinerary is a 10-night transatlantic voyage from Rome to San Juan, Puerto Rico, departing November 13, 2025. Following this repositioning cruise, the ship is set to operate a series of Caribbean itineraries from San Juan through April 2026, before returning to the Western Mediterranean for the spring and summer season.

Norwegian Cruise Line has emphasized that routine disinfection, water testing, and maintenance are integral parts of its onboard safety systems. These procedures, combined with oversight from global health authorities, help maintain public confidence in the cruise travel sector.

Cruise Industry Health Oversight and Precedents

This is not the first time a major cruise operator has issued such an alert. In early 2025, Royal Caribbean International also notified guests of potential exposure after two passengers were diagnosed with Legionnaires’ disease following sailings on the Symphony of the Seas. These instances highlight the continued importance of water safety management aboard large passenger vessels, which function as floating hotels with complex plumbing and air systems.

Cruise lines operating in regions such as Europe, and North America are required to comply with strict sanitation standards and undergo regular inspections. The close cooperation between cruise operators and organizations such as the CDC, the World Health Organization (WHO), and various European health agencies ensures that such incidents are promptly addressed and mitigated.

Broader Implications for Cruise Tourism

While rare, health advisories like this can momentarily impact consumer confidence within the global cruise tourism market. However, experts note that the Norwegian Epic’s swift response and transparency demonstrate the maturity of modern cruise operations. Health and hygiene measures on cruise ships have advanced significantly since the pandemic, with new protocols designed to detect and manage potential risks early.

Travel industry analysts believe that clear communication and ongoing collaboration with health agencies strengthen trust among travelers. For passengers planning cruises across the Mediterranean, Caribbean, or Atlantic routes, awareness and proactive health practices remain essential aspects of safe travel.

The Norwegian Epic, known for its multi-deck design, outdoor pools, and diverse entertainment options, continues to represent one of Norwegian Cruise Line’s flagship vessels in both the European and North American markets. The cruise line’s handling of the situation has been marked by its adherence to international health standards and cooperation with regulatory bodies.

The ongoing investigation by the CDC and NCL’s internal safety teams is expected to conclude once water system testing is completed. Any necessary preventive or corrective measures will be implemented before future voyages.

Passengers are encouraged to remain informed through official updates from Norwegian Cruise Line and to follow recommended health guidelines before and after their trips.

As the global cruise sector continues its steady post-pandemic recovery, maintaining a focus on public health, transparency, and passenger safety remains critical to the growth of international tourism.

The post Norwegian Cruise Line Warns Passengers After Legionnaires’ Disease Cases Linked to Norwegian Epic in Europe and the United States appeared first on Travel and Tour World