Meningitis outbreak plagues European cruise ship, four employees diagnosed
Skift Take
The episode, combined with an unrelated outbreak of fungal meningitis on US cruise ships, highlights why hygiene is a hefty variable to consider when takking a cruise.
More than 2,500 passengers on a cruise ship sailing in Europe have received antibiotics in the wake of an outbreak of bacterial meningitis on the vessel, industry watcher Seatrade Insider reports.
Seatrade Insider says four crew members of the MSC Orchestra were diagnosed with the illness and hospitalized after the ship's arrival in Livorno, Italy on Sunday. One of the crew members is in serious condition, the news outlet says.
Seatrade Insider says the treatment of 2,723 passengers and more than 950 crew members was done as a precaution.
Up Next
Experiences
How Travel Brands Can Seize the ‘Q5’ Opportunity on TikTok
Driven by increased spending on experiences and the digital habits of younger audiences, TikTok has emerged as a key platform for inspiring and shaping travel decisions. Leveraging the platform’s reach early in the year presents a unique opportunity for travel brands to connect with eager travelers.
Sponsored 
Tourism
U.S. Allies Add Warnings for Travel to America
The updated advisories and media reports of mistreatment will contribute to a perception that the U.S. is less welcoming. Eventually that shows up in lower numbers of inbound tourism.
Tourism
Visitors Aren't Coming to India: What the Travel Industry Wants Now
With a $30 trillion economy goal by 2047, India needs more than just tourists, it needs high-value travelers, and that starts with a bold, well-funded tourism push.
Cruises
Disney CEO Defends Park Pricing, Unveils New Tech and Plans 7 More Cruise Ships
Disney is spending $30 billion to expand its theme parks and cruise line in part to keep prices in check and avoid discounting.
Online Travel
OpenAI Engineer Talks Travel and Working with Booking.com
Users are becoming more likely to use AI during the trip planning process, but it'll take more time before they're comfortable with AI taking control from start to finish.