A medical team dressed in full hazmat suits boarding a cruise ship became a haunting image during the COVID-19 pandemic and recently resurfaced during a hantavirus outbreak aboard the MV Hondius. Such events have fueled the narrative that cruise ships are essentially “floating petri dishes.” However, the cruise industry asserts that cruising is one of the safest vacation options available.
Experts like Dr. William Schaffner, an infectious diseases professor, emphasize that the reality lies between the extremes of fear and reassurance. While risks exist, travelers should not be overly frightened. According to Dr. David O. Freedman, a professor of infectious diseases specializing in travel medicine, while there is a heightened risk on cruise ships due to close quarters and extended exposure times, excitement should not be eclipsed by fear.
The risk of getting sick on cruise ships is notably higher than in other forms of mass transportation, primarily due to the large number of individuals confined in close contact for long durations. Although direct studies comparing disease transmission on cruise ships and airplanes are scarce, it’s reasoned that exposure risks soar during longer cruises, which can last for days or months.
Notably, respiratory infections, including the flu and respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), account for roughly a third of the illnesses reported on cruise ships. Experts also urge calm regarding hantavirus, as recent cases, traced to the Andes virus among passengers infected prior to boarding, are deemed anomalies.
In contrast, norovirus, a highly contagious gastrointestinal bug often associated with cruise ships, has historically led to outbreaks. Reports indicate around one outbreak per month on U.S.-porting ships, earning it a notorious nickname. Crucially, hand sanitizers are ineffective against norovirus; experts recommend washing hands with soap and water to combat it effectively.
Despite the stigma, many cruises maintain strict sanitary standards, and foodborne illnesses remain rare. While respiratory conditions can still occur, the majority are mild, with older adults and those with compromised immune systems advised to take additional precautions.
From 2006 to 2019, the CDC reported a significant decrease in gastrointestinal illness on cruises, attributed to enhanced hygiene measures, including increased handwashing stations and regular disinfection of commonly touched surfaces.
To minimize the risk of illness while cruising, handwashing frequently with soap is crucial. The CDC recommends that all travelers remain up to date with routine vaccinations, particularly for COVID-19 and influenza. For higher-risk individuals, antiviral medications may be advised. If feeling unwell before a cruise, health experts suggest postponing the trip to prevent spreading infections onboard.
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