Norovirus Cases on Cruise Ships Skyrocket: Here’s Why

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Credits: Kamran norollahi/Pexels

The allure of the open sea, captivating itineraries, and the luxurious promise of a carefree escape have long made cruising a popular choice for vacationers. However, this industry’s lustrous appeal has recently been overshadowed by a surge in outbreaks of a particularly stubborn and contagious pathogen — Norovirus, reports Scitechdaily.

Norovirus outbreak aboard cruise ships

Since the start of this year, an unsettling trend has emerged. According to data compiled by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), there have been 13 outbreaks across six different cruise lines. This alarming number marks the highest incidence of such outbreaks since 2012 when there were 16 across eight lines over the entire year.

In light of these recent developments, it’s imperative to explore and understand the nature of Norovirus — what it is, why it’s a recurring issue aboard cruise ships, and its impact on the cruise industry. This article aims to shed light on these matters, unpacking the complexities of the problem, and highlighting the steps that are being taken to address it.

The recent surge in Norovirus outbreaks underscores the necessity of vigilance and proper understanding of this issue, both for those planning a dream vacation at sea and for those in the cruise industry itself. Together, we can work towards ensuring that cruise ships remain a place of relaxation and enjoyment, rather than a breeding ground for this troublesome virus.

Read more about norovirus here. 

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Source: SciTechDaily