Norovirus Outbreaks on Cruise Ships Surge
CDC Reports 13 Confirmed Outbreaks Since January 2023
Over 400 Passengers and Crew Members Infected So Far
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has reported a surge in norovirus outbreaks on cruise ships since January 2023, with 13 confirmed outbreaks to date. A total of 403 passengers and crew members have been infected, a significant increase from the same period last year.
The CDC is the only agency that tracks norovirus outbreaks on cruise ships, and it only follows up on outbreaks that affect at least 3% of passengers and crew. This means that the actual number of norovirus cases on cruise ships may be much higher.
Norovirus is a highly contagious virus that causes vomiting, diarrhea, stomach cramps, and nausea. It is spread through contact with contaminated food, water, or surfaces. Cruise ships are a prime breeding ground for norovirus, as they are often overcrowded and passengers and crew members come into close contact with each other.
The CDC recommends that passengers take precautions to avoid getting norovirus on a cruise ship, such as washing their hands frequently, avoiding contact with sick people, and eating only cooked food and drinking bottled water.
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