New Outbreaks of Norovirus on Cruise Ships Raise Concerns Ahead of Peak Season
A recent surge in norovirus outbreaks on cruise ships has left approximately 150 people sick, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). The latest incidents have occurred on the Holland America Line’s Eurodam and Zuiderdam, as well as the Lindblad Expeditions’ National Geographic Sea Lion.
The CDC reports that norovirus has been linked to twelve outbreaks on cruise ships this year, resulting in nearly 1,500 cases. This number already surpasses pre-pandemic levels and is on track to exceed 2024’s total of 15 norovirus outbreaks.
Health officials have yet to determine the cause of two of these outbreaks, but they were able to link the Eurodam illnesses to the pathogen behind most of this year’s outbreaks: norovirus. Commonly known as the stomach bug, norovirus is a leading cause of vomiting and diarrhea in the US, typically infecting patients through contaminated food or water.
Symptoms of Norovirus Infection
According to the Minnesota Department of Health and the Cleveland Clinic, symptoms of norovirus infection include:
- Dizziness
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Stomach cramping
- Urinating less or dark-colored urine
- Dry mouth
- Feeling weak
Less common symptoms are:
- Low-grade fever or chills
- Headache
- Muscle aches
A person who is sick and has been infected with the virus will typically experience the symptoms suddenly. Children with the virus may be fussy, sleepy throughout the day, and cry without tears.
As USA Today reports, people begin to show symptoms one to two days after they’ve been exposed to the virus. However, symptoms can appear 12 hours after exposure. It is worth noting that some individuals may be asymptomatic and show no symptoms at all, yet still be contagious and pass the virus to others.
Treatment and Prevention
There are no antivirals to treat norovirus, and the CDC warns against taking antibiotics because the medication won’t work and can lead to dangerous antibiotic resistance. The best way to get through the stomach flu is to rest, stay hydrated, and listen to your body, according to Dr. Paul Sax, clinical director of the infectious disease division at Brigham and Women’s Hospital.
When it comes to reintroducing solid foods, many doctors recommend the BRAT diet: bananas, rice, applesauce, and toast. However, Dr. Sax suggests that patients can eat whatever they want if they feel their body is ready. It is essential to avoid alcohol and dairy products, as norovirus can lead to temporary lactose intolerance.
To avoid getting norovirus, health experts recommend practicing good hygiene. This includes washing hands for at least 20 seconds with soap and water, as sanitizers are not effective against norovirus. Additionally, people can still pass on norovirus for two weeks or more after being infected.
The CDC advises that norovirus spreads very easily between people, for instance, by sharing food, eating or drinking liquids handled by someone with the virus, or touching contaminated surfaces and then putting unwashed fingers in your mouth.
As reported by USA Today, some of the most common foods associated with norovirus include shellfish, raw vegetables, and fruit.
Source: USA Today – https://www.usatoday.com/story/life/health-wellness/2025/04/29/norovirus-cruise-ship-sick/83342054007/
By Adrianna Rodriguez, USA Today.
