Norovirus alarm: Cruises in particular endanger children and seniors!

Norovirus alarm: Cruises in particular endanger children and seniors!

In the first months of 2025, numerous Norovirus eruptions were registered worldwide, especially on cruise ships. This reports Exxpress.at . The increase in cases is particularly striking: According to the Vessel Sanitation Program of the US Health Authority CDC, a total of 14 Norovirus outbreaks on cruise ships were documented by the beginning of May 2025, which corresponds to almost the total number of 18 outbreaks throughout 2024. The developments indicate that the basic immunity of the population against the current Norovirus variants may be low.

There are alarming trends about the Norovirus infections. Between August 2024 and early June 2025, the number of outbreaks in the United States was almost twice as high as in the same period of the previous year. A outbreak is recorded by the CDC when 3% or more of the passengers and the crew show symptoms. Noroviruses are among the most common triggers of acute gastrointestinal diseases and are highly contagious. Even a small dose of the virus can cause an infection.

particularly endangered groups

Small children and the elderly in particular are at risk of Norovirus infections because the disease can lead to dangerous loss of fluid. The typical symptoms include sudden, violent vomiting, diarrhea, nausea, abdominal pain, headache and general weakness. Experts warn that the narrow community facilities on cruise ships offer ideal conditions for the spread of the virus.

The biggest outbreak this year occurred on the "Queen Mary 2", in which 266 of the 2,538 passengers, i.e. about 11%, are ill. This illustrates the speed at which Noroviruses can spread, especially in a narrow space. Similar incidents have also been observed on other ships, such as the Eurodam, where two outbreaks, each with around 150 affected passengers, were recorded.

prevention measures

currently there is no approved vaccine against Noroviruses, but clinical studies are in the works. In view of the growing number of outbreaks, preventive measures and the maintenance of hygiene are particularly important to protect the health of travelers. These measures are not only relevant for cruise ships, but also for other public places, since Noroviruses are widespread worldwide and are increasingly becoming a serious health problem.