Most common illnesses on cruise ships, including seasickness, measles, flu and other respiratory illnesses, norovirus, and Legionnaires’ disease.
Most common illness on cruise ships has often forced cruise lines to end trips early, resulting in many passengers falling ill. Although no one wants to think about getting sick during a vacation, it happens more frequently than you might expect.
In this article, we detail the six most common illnesses that passengers might face on cruise ships. Read on to understand why these illnesses occur and how they can impact your journey.
6 Most Common Illness On Cruise Ships
1: Seasickness illness on Cruise Ships
The most common illness on cruise ships is seasickness, a type of motion sickness that affects both adults and children. According to the CDC, the movement of the boat can cause nausea, dizziness, and vomiting due to a disruption in the inner ear.
Medication is often used to alleviate these symptoms, ensuring a more comfortable journey. Managing seasickness is crucial, as prolonged symptoms can lead to complications such as infection. Understanding this condition helps people enjoy their cruise experiences without discomfort.
2: Measles illness on Cruise Ships
Measles was eliminated from the U.S. in 2000, but recent cases have emerged, emphasizing the importance of continued vigilance.
The virus spreads through the air and can infect a person simply by being in the same room. Thanks to effective vaccine programs, the incidence of measles has significantly decreased in many countries around the world.
Chen, a passenger on the cruise, was diagnosed with chicken pox, caused by the varicella virus. Despite the best efforts of the crew member and medical staff, the virus began to spread among people on board.
The close quarters and shared spaces made it easy for the virus to infect others in the same area, highlighting the challenges of containing such illnesses on a cruise ship.
3: Flu and other Respiratory Illness on Cruise Ships
“According to the CDC (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention), flu and RSV (respiratory syncytial virus) are significant illnesses affecting adults in the U.S. Recent data from the CDC shows that cases of these viruses have declined from fall’s peak.”
These respiratory illnesses, including the flu, impact various parts of the globe, causing widespread health concerns. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention continually monitors these viruses to mitigate their spread and protect public health.
“Dr. Jose Lucar, an infectious disease physician and associate professor at the George Washington University School of Medicine and Health Sciences in Washington, D.C., highlights the high influenza rates on cruise ships due to the close proximity of passengers and crew. He emphasizes that cruise travel can spread the virus across various parts of the world, as people visit multiple places during their journey. Proper health protocols and medicine are crucial to managing these risks.”
The CDC states that in the southern hemisphere, including Australia, South America, and Africa, flu season usually lasts from April to September. In the tropics, flu outbreaks can happen at any time throughout the year.
4: Norovirus illness on Cruise Ships
Norovirus is the most common illness on cruise ships, often disrupting the fun onboard. It causes symptoms like diarrhea, vomiting, nausea, and stomach pain, and according to the CDC, it is responsible for over 90 percent of diarrheal disease outbreaks on cruises.
However, despite being the most common illness on cruise ships, norovirus outbreaks on ships account for only 1 percent of all reported cases.
Chen and Dr. Lucar have been studying the transmission of pathogens on cruise ships. In their research, they found that bathrooms, buffet lines, and pools are common areas where infection can spread among passengers.
The turnover of living quarters and the frequent touching of surfaces contribute to the virus transmission scenario. Using disinfectants is crucial in minimizing the risk, as the ship environment can facilitate the quick spread of pathogens.
The Cruise Lines International Association, a prominent cruise industry trade association, works closely with the CDC on the Vessel Sanitation Program to minimize the risk of norovirus outbreaks, the most common virus on cruise ships. The likelihood of contracting norovirus during a ship outbreak is estimated to be about 1 in 5,500.
With numerous cabins and public areas such as elevators and pools, maintaining stringent sanitation is crucial. The Program focuses on thorough cleaning practices and regular inspections, as outlined on their website.
“On a Princess Cruise ship, an illness outbreak affected 300 people, including 284 passengers and 34 crew members, resulting in diarrhea and vomiting. The CDC reported the total number of affected individuals, but the agency didn’t cite the cause of the illness. In response to the outbreak, the Ruby Princess significantly enhanced its cleaning and disinfection protocols.”
Pathogens such as salmonella and E. coli have been found on boats. Notably, the CDC has identified shigella as a significant cause of GI outbreaks on cruise ships. This bacterium leads to shigellosis, an infection that results in fever, stomach pain, and sometimes bloody or prolonged diarrhea.
Chen mentions that the infection is typically treated with antibiotics, but the CDC has recently warned about the emergence of antibiotic-resistant strains in the U.S.
Although Chen hasn’t observed outbreaks of these resistant strains on cruise ships, it’s important to keep an eye on the situation.
5: Gastrointestinal illness on Cruise Ships
According to the World Health Organization, the most common illness on cruise ships is gastrointestinal disease, primarily caused by pathogens like E. coli, Salmonella, and norovirus. These spread through food and water consumption, leading to illnesses among passengers.
Proper hygiene and safety measures can significantly reduce these disease occurrences during cruise travel.
6: Legionnaires illness on Cruise Ships
The most common illness on cruise ships can include Legionnaires’ disease, a severe form of pneumonia caused by the bacterium Legionella, which can thrive in a cruise ship’s water and air conditioning system. This disease spreads through inhaling contaminated water vapor, putting everyone on board at risk.
Another form of Legionnaires’ disease is known as Pontiac fever, which manifests with symptoms similar to the flu.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Are Common Cruise Ship Illnesses?
Common illnesses on cruise ships typically include gastrointestinal issues like norovirus, respiratory infections such as influenza, and occasionally seasickness among passengers. Cruise lines prioritize hygiene and sanitation measures to minimize the spread of these illnesses onboard.
Why Is Norovirus Common On Cruise Ships?
Cruise ships are especially conducive to conditions that make people vulnerable to norovirus, such as close quarters, enclosed spaces, communal dining, and a high turnover of passengers.
Which Food Borne Illness Is Most Common On Cruise Ships?
Besides norovirus and rotavirus, cruise ships may encounter various other foodborne illnesses. Salmonella, for instance, is frequently found on ships that serve undercooked or raw seafood, poultry, beef, pork, eggs, fruits, and vegetables.