Norovirus outbreaks on cruise ships have surged, with hundreds falling ill in recent weeks, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
At a Glance
- CDC reports 14 cruise voyage outbreaks in 2024, with three in December affecting 301 people
- Affected ships include Princess Cruises’ Ruby Princess and Holland America’s Rotterdam and Zuiderdam
- Norovirus cases typically spike from November to April
- Cruise lines have implemented enhanced cleaning and isolation measures
- CDC emphasizes preventive measures and early symptom recognition
Cruise Ship Outbreaks on the Rise
The CDC has reported a significant increase in norovirus outbreaks on cruise ships, raising concerns among travelers and health officials alike. In December alone, three separate ships experienced outbreaks, affecting a total of 301 passengers and crew members. The affected vessels were Princess Cruises’ Ruby Princess and Holland America’s Rotterdam and Zuiderdam.
The Rotterdam ship, which had 2,192 passengers and 953 crew members, saw 83 passengers and 12 crew members fall ill. Similarly, the Zuiderdam voyage reported 87 passengers and 4 crew members affected, while the Ruby Princess had 103 passengers and 12 crew members reporting illness.
Norovirus: A Persistent Threat
Norovirus, the leading cause of foodborne illness in the United States, is particularly challenging to control in the confined environment of cruise ships. The virus causes over 90% of diarrheal disease outbreaks on these vessels, though this represents only a small percentage of all norovirus outbreaks nationwide.
“Norovirus can be especially challenging to control on cruise ships because of the close living quarters, shared dining areas, and rapid turnover of passengers. When the ship docks, norovirus can be brought on board in contaminated food or water, or by passengers who were infected while ashore,” the CDC said.
Symptoms of norovirus include diarrhea, nausea, vomiting, stomach pain, fever, headaches, and body aches. The virus is highly contagious and can spread rapidly in enclosed spaces, making cruise ships particularly vulnerable.
Cruise Lines Respond with Enhanced Measures
In response to the outbreaks, cruise lines have implemented stringent measures to contain the spread of the virus. Holland America Line, which operates both the Rotterdam and Zuiderdam, has taken swift action to address the situation.
“At Holland America Line, the safety and well-being of our guests and crew is our top priority. During the current voyage, a number of guests on Rotterdam reported symptoms of gastrointestinal illness. The cases have mostly been mild and quickly resolving,” a Holland America spokesperson said.
The company has implemented additional cleaning, disinfection, and isolation measures, and has consulted with the CDC’s Vessel Sanitation Program. Both affected ships underwent comprehensive sanitization upon arrival in Fort Lauderdale before embarking on their next voyages.
CDC Guidance and Preventive Measures
The CDC emphasizes the importance of preventive measures and early recognition of symptoms to limit the spread of norovirus. Passengers are urged to practice good hygiene, including frequent handwashing, and to report any symptoms promptly to ship medical staff.
“The rise in cases emphasizes the need for preventive measures. Early recognition of symptoms and isolating cases can limit further spread,” the CDC stated.
