Cruise Ship Gastrointestinal Outbreaks Reach Worrying New Highs: What You Need to Know

According to recent data from the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), cruise ships faced a significant rise in gastrointestinal outbreaks in 2024, marking the worst year in over a decade. Specifically, there were 16 reported outbreaks, impacting approximately 1,894 passengers and 245 crew members.

As reported by The Hill, five of these outbreaks occurred solely in December, underscoring the severity of the situation. Additionally, CNN Travel highlights that many of these illness cases may have been linked to norovirus, a highly contagious virus that commonly causes vomiting and diarrhea.

The CDC clarifies that norovirus, often referred to as the "stomach flu” or “stomach bug,” is distinct from the influenza virus. It leads to acute gastroenteritis, which causes inflammation in the stomach or intestines. Although contracting norovirus is uncomfortable, the CDC notes that recovery typically occurs within one to three days. However, those infected may still transmit the virus even after symptoms lessen, so self-isolation is recommended.

Dr. William Schnaffner from Vanderbilt University emphasizes the virus’s contagious nature, explaining that it requires only a small number of viral particles to cause an infection. The virus can remain on surfaces for days, presenting a risk to anyone who comes into contact with contaminated areas.

To mitigate the chances of contracting norovirus, the CDC advises frequent handwashing and thorough cleaning of surfaces that may be contaminated.

For further information, you can review the CDC guidelines on norovirus here.

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