According to the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), there have been 13 outbreaks of norovirus on cruises this year, marking the highest number of norovirus outbreaks on cruises since 2012. The most recent outbreak occurred on a Viking Cruises voyage from Iceland, where approximately 13% of passengers and several crew members fell ill.
Norovirus is a highly infectious virus that causes inflammation in the stomach and intestines, leading to symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and stomach pain. It can be transmitted through contact with infected individuals, consumption of contaminated food or water, or touching contaminated surfaces. Norovirus is known for its high contagiousness, requiring only a small number of viral particles to initiate an infection.
While there is no specific treatment for norovirus, most people recover without medical intervention, with hydration therapy being a common approach to address symptoms. To prevent the spread of norovirus, experts recommend thorough handwashing with soap and warm water, as hand sanitizers are not effective against the virus.
The increase in norovirus outbreaks on cruises this year is believed to be linked to the surging demand for cruises and the record number of passengers. With 31.5 million passengers worldwide expected to set sail this year, creating high-density environments, the risk of transmission is heightened.
The CDC provides information about outbreaks on cruises that meet specific criteria, including a certain number of passengers, duration of the voyage, and a minimum percentage of individuals reporting symptoms. The conditions for reporting outbreaks have been met 13 times this year, compared to twice in 2022. Royal Caribbean has experienced the most norovirus outbreaks among individual cruise companies this year.
The enclosed and densely populated nature of cruise ships creates an environment conducive to norovirus transmission. Crowded spaces and close proximity among passengers provide ample opportunities for the virus to spread. The sudden onset of symptoms, including aerosolized vomit particles, further contributes to the ease of transmission.
Experts recommend postponing trips if feeling unwell, thorough handwashing, avoiding contaminated food, and promptly notifying the ship's medical team if experiencing symptoms. The CDC's Vessel Sanitation Program oversees the monitoring and prevention of disease outbreaks on cruise ships, conducting inspections, and providing training for cruise ship employees on public health practices.
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