2024 was worst year for stomach virus outbreaks on cruise ships in decade: CDC
Surge in Stomach Bug Outbreaks on Cruise Ships
This year has been particularly challenging for cruise ships docking in the United States. According to the latest data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), 2024 has recorded the highest number of stomach virus outbreaks on cruises since 2012. With one day left in the year, the total stands at 16 outbreaks, tying with the previous peak in 2012. In comparison, last year saw 14 gastrointestinal outbreaks. The rise in cases has raised concerns among passengers and the cruise industry alike.
Recent Outbreaks and Their Impact
December has proven to be a particularly alarming month for cruise ship health. The CDC reported five separate outbreaks on four different ships, affecting over 800 individuals. The culprit behind these outbreaks is the highly contagious norovirus, which has been on the rise across the United States. The most significant outbreak occurred on the Cunard cruise line’s Queen Mary 2, which set sail on December 21. Nearly 400 people onboard have fallen ill, with 326 of the 2,565 passengers and 65 of the 1,233 crew members affected. This represents 12% and 5% of those groups, respectively.
The norovirus appears to have remained onboard the Queen Mary 2, likely due to contaminated surfaces or infected crew members. This outbreak follows an earlier incident on the same ship during a voyage from December 14 to December 21, where 138 passengers and 12 crew members fell ill. The CDC notes that the vast majority of the 16 outbreaks this year were caused by norovirus, with only three exceptions. One outbreak was linked to E. coli, another to Salmonella, and the cause of a third outbreak remains unknown.
Preventive Measures and Health Protocols
In response to the rising number of outbreaks, Cunard Line has implemented enhanced health protocols. These measures include additional deep cleaning and close monitoring of ill passengers and crew members by onboard medical staff. The CDC emphasizes the importance of frequent and thorough handwashing, especially before eating and after using the restroom, as a key strategy to prevent the spread of norovirus. Cleaning and disinfecting surfaces is also crucial in controlling outbreaks.
Cruise lines are required to follow specific CDC-approved guidelines for cleaning and disinfecting ships. They must report any outbreaks affecting 3% or more of passengers and crew members to the agency. However, cruise ships are not the only venues where norovirus spreads rapidly. Each year, the United States sees an average of 2,500 reported outbreaks of this stomach virus, with cases currently surging in various regions. The CDC estimates that norovirus costs the global economy around $60 billion annually, with approximately $2 billion attributed to healthcare costs and lost productivity in the U.S. alone.
As the cruise industry navigates these challenges, both passengers and crew must remain vigilant. Understanding the risks and adhering to health protocols can help mitigate the impact of norovirus outbreaks on cruise ships and beyond.
