More and more gastrointestinal outbreaks on cruise ships – how travelers can protect themselves

When thousands of passengers live together in close quarters during their journey, pathogens like norovirus can spread rapidly. There's currently a gastrointestinal alert in Norway. The " Bild " newspaper, among others, is reporting on this. 200 passengers on the MS Artania have fallen ill . The TV cruise ship, operated by German tour operator Phoenix-Reisen, is currently en route to the north of the country.

Television audiences know the so-called "Grand Lady" from the series "Crazy About the Sea." Some of the passengers probably don't see much of the sea right now. The four-star ship set sail from Brønnøysund, Norway, on Tuesday. At that point, 50 passengers had already begun to fall ill. The number is now said to have risen to around 200 sick people on board.

Remi Solberg of the Norwegian shipping agency ArcticGuide Service confirmed the situation. "It's true that there is an infection on board. It's norovirus, a contagious gastrointestinal virus."

Infection occurs via the fecal-oral route. This means the viruses are excreted in the stool and ingested orally. This route of infection is also called contact infection. The infection can be dangerous for older people and children because it is associated with significant fluid loss.

The CDC's data does not cover all cruises worldwide. The American agency only documents cases on ships that call at least one port in the US on their international itinerary and carry more than 13 passengers. Only when more than three percent of passengers and crew members report a gastrointestinal infection to the onboard medical staff does the incident appear in the statistics.

The conditions on board favor the spread of gastrointestinal illnesses . Many people are in close quarters, use buffets and pools together, and touch door handles and railings. Restrooms are available in certain common areas for all passengers to use. All of this increases the risk of infection. Once a virus is on board, it often spreads quickly through direct contact or contaminated surfaces.

Ships that serve busy routes and frequently dock in ports with high passenger density are particularly affected. Experts also attribute the increase to the growing popularity of cruises: Larger ships with thousands of guests and crew members create ideal conditions for the spread of a wide variety of pathogens.

The CDC recommends a number of measures to minimize the risk of illness – most of which will protect you from infection not only on a ship:

1. Regular hand washing: Washing thoroughly with soap and water for at least 20 seconds, especially after using the toilet and before meals, is the best protection against noroviruses.
2. Use disinfectants: Alcohol-based hand sanitizers can be used as a supplement, but are less effective against noroviruses than soap and water.
3. Observe hygiene rules on board: Use the disinfection stations provided by the ship and pay attention to notices with hygiene tips.
4. Enjoy buffets with caution: Choose food that is freshly prepared and served hot. Avoid raw or undercooked foods like sushi, oysters, or salads.
5. Report illness: Inform the cabin crew immediately if you feel ill. Early action can help contain the spread of the virus.
6. Avoid contact with sick people: Avoid close contact with people who show symptoms such as vomiting or diarrhea.

If you become ill despite all precautions, stay in your cabin to avoid infecting others. Drink plenty of water to replenish fluids, and consult the ship's doctor if you experience severe symptoms such as high fever or extreme weakness.