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Just what in the heck is “Norovirus” anyway?

Norovirus is a type of contagious virus that is usually air-borne.

According to Mayo Clinic “Norovirus is an infection that causes severe diarrhea and vomiting”.  Noroviruses are a major cause of gastrointestinal illness in closed and crowded environments, such as hospitals, nursing homes and cruise ships.

Typically, people with norovirus infection develop diarrhea and abdominal pain and begin to vomit within 24 to 48 hours of exposure. Norovirus symptoms may last a few days, but most people recover completely without treatment. However, in some people — especially infants, older adults and people with underlying disease — vomiting and diarrhea can be severely dehydrating and require medical attention.

Norovirus infection is highly contagious. Noroviruses commonly spread through food or water contaminated by fecal matter during preparation. You can also acquire norovirus infection through close contact with an infected person — for instance, if you live in a nursing home or work in a day care facility.

Why do I always hear about the Norovirus in connection with cruise ships?

That’s the simplest part.  The CDC has strict reporting “REQUIREMENTS” for Norovirus outbreaks at sea.  The same percentage of cases might be seen in a hospital, a nursing home, or a school but, they are NOT required to make the same report that a cruise ship must.

Okay… now what?  Is it safe to go on a cruise?

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention say "it is perfectly safe to go on cruise ships. The standard by which they (cruise lines) are held for sanitation is the highest in the world."   This might even be the best time to cruise.  All cruise lines are developing proactive procedures to prevent the spread of communicable diseases.   

How do I avoid those “sick ships”?

There are no “sick ships”.  Mostly you hear about “sick ships” that had, and do, pass the CDC’s notoriously strenuous vessel sanitation inspection with flying colors!  These “ships” aren’t sick, but, people who board them sometimes are.  These people can and do pass the illness around. Norovirus is, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, one of the most contagious gastrointestinal illnesses in the world. My best advice?  Wash or sanitize your hands every chance you get.

If I avoid cruise ships am I safer? 

Norovirus is NOT a cruise ship phenomenon.  Norovirus is second only to the common cold in reported illnesses, impacting millions of people around the world each year. Known as the “Norwalk Virus”, it was named after an outbreak in Norwalk, Ohio, +/- 30 years ago. It can and does break out any time or season.  .

Can I avoid catching this virus on a ship (or on land)?

Cruise ships battle the spread of Norovirus with intense cleaning and sanitizing protocols that diminish the probability of a spreadable virus surviving onboard. These protocols are extremely sophisticated and undergo a process of continual improvement.  Cruise line staff receives special training on how and when to employ these protocols that meet or often exceed the CDC’s requirements.

Medical facilities on many ships are now equipped to test specimen samples, onboard, so that doctors can get quick results and implement necessary counter measures.

In addition many buffet areas are no longer serve-yourself.  In a passenger’s “welcome on board” packet, you might find a list of stay-healthy tips like washing hands frequently.  Those who do contract the disease are encouraged to stay in their cabin for a day or two so as not to spread the virus while it’s most communicable.

Other more radical measures might include taking the ship out of service for a massive cleaning. This might include sanitizing and/or disinfecting television remotes, poker chips, currency, pillows, and steam cleaning carpets.

Will avoiding “un cooked food” help me avoid this virus?

Consumption of cooked food will surely help you a lot.  Most often these viruses are also observed in uncooked foods like clams and oysters. 

Bottom line?

For the most part, Norovirus outbreaks are the result of guests setting sail sick ... and passing it around!

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