Cruise ships threatened by new strain of norovirus

U.S. experts have issued safety recommendations on cruise ships due to a surge in norovirus outbreaks, the most common illness reported on ships. This year, 16 outbreaks have been reported on cruise ships within the jurisdiction of the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). Less than 1% of the 19 million to 21 million norovirus illnesses that occur each year in the United States are linked to cruises, according to Lee-Ann Jaykus, a food microbiologist and virologist at North Carolina State University. The norovirus is highly contagious, especially in crowded conditions. While the illness is generally mild for most people, it can be more serious for those with pre-existing medical conditions, young children, and people over the age of 65. A new outbreak strain, GII.17, emerged this year and was responsible for approximately 80% of the more than 2,400 suspected or confirmed norovirus outbreaks reported to the CDC’s monitoring system between 1 August and 9 April. Due to the confined nature of the space, passengers displaying severe symptoms are advised to report their illness and self-isolate. Passengers should also be alert for signs of illness in others and maintain distance from potentially infected individuals. It is recommended that proper and frequent hand hygiene with soap and water be observed, especially after using the restroom and before eating. Cruise lines have comprehensive sanitization protocols overseen by the CDC’s ship program through inspections funded by government entities. However, these funding programs have recently been reduced by the U.S. administration.