A recent report from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) indicates that 2025 could witness a significant rise in norovirus outbreaks on cruise ships. This uptick is attributed to a newly dominant strain of the virus, which has been linked to a steady stream of gastrointestinal illness cases among both passengers and crew members.
According to the CDC, a “steady string” of norovirus infections has been reported, aligning with the rise of this new variant. The agency emphasized, “CDC data show a newly dominant strain is currently associated with reported norovirus outbreaks on land. Ships typically follow the pattern of land-based outbreaks, which are higher this norovirus season,” as cited in USA Today.
Notable Increase in Outbreaks
So far in 2025, there have been 13 reported outbreaks of gastrointestinal illness on cruise ships, meeting the criteria for public notification. Significantly, ten of these outbreaks were attributed to norovirus, surpassing prior year totals—15 norovirus outbreaks were documented in all of 2024 and 13 in 2023.
Impact on Passengers and Crew
In an incident reported by AOL.com, a recent cruise aboard the Holland America Eurodam, leaving Florida, saw 79 passengers and nine crew members fall ill due to norovirus. This incident serves as a reminder that although cruise ships account for only about 1% of all norovirus cases, outbreaks can impact the cruise experience significantly.
Investigating Contributing Factors
The CDC noted that while the recent increase in cruise ship outbreaks is above pre-pandemic levels, it remains uncertain if this pattern will persist. Preliminary evaluations suggest a possible overreliance on hand sanitizer aboard these vessels may play a role, as hand sanitizers are less effective against norovirus compared to traditional handwashing with soap and water.
Compounding these issues, the CDC’s Vessel Sanitation Program has faced major cutbacks, including the termination of all full-time employees, which has critically weakened the agency’s capacity to manage and investigate these outbreaks. A core group of U.S. Public Health Service commissioned officers has taken over some responsibilities. Notably, the epidemiologist who led the agency’s outbreak response for cruise ships was among those laid off.
Maintaining Sanitation Standards
Amid these concerns, the Cruise Lines International Association reassured the public, stating that illness on cruise ships remains “extremely rare” as strict sanitation protocols are consistently followed. The association emphasized that cruise lines are committed to ensuring a healthy sailing experience for guests and crew by maintaining high standards of hygiene onboard.
As public health authorities and cruise lines navigate this evolving situation, ongoing updates and precautions will remain paramount in addressing norovirus outbreaks effectively, ensuring that passengers can enjoy their cruises with confidence.
