Recent outbreaks of Norovirus on cruise ships have sparked concerns among the public. The US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has reported 13 outbreaks of the virus on cruises in North America, the highest number since 2012.
Norovirus, commonly known as the stomach bug or stomach flu, is a highly contagious virus that spreads through food, water, and close contact with infected individuals. The virus tends to circulate during the winter season when temperatures drop.
Passengers who have contracted the virus while traveling at sea have taken to social media to share their experiences. They have discussed various aspects, including the cost of medication and the response time of the onboard medical team and crew during medical emergencies.
Also read: Study Finds Higher Risk of Covid-19 Infections in Individuals with Blood Group A
How Long Does Norovirus Last?
Norovirus is highly contagious, with infected individuals shedding billions of virus particles that are invisible to the naked eye. The illness typically lasts for about two to three days, and individuals can remain contagious for a few days even after recovery. Symptoms typically appear within 12 to 48 hours after exposure to the virus.
Currently, there is no available vaccine for Norovirus. However, most people recover within two to three days. It’s important to note that the virus can have a more severe impact on senior citizens, infants, and individuals with weakened immune systems.
The Latest Norovirus Outbreak: Viking Neptune
The most recent outbreak occurred on June 20 when the Viking Neptune cruise ship was docked in New York after returning from Iceland.
According to the CDC, approximately 13% of the total passengers onboard (113 out of 838) and nine crew members contracted the illness. The CDC confirmed the presence of the virus through laboratory testing of samples sent by medical officials onboard.
