Is Norovirus the Cruise Ship Virus?

By Alice Nichols

Norovirus, also known as the ‘cruise ship virus’, is a highly contagious virus that causes severe vomiting and diarrhea. It is found in food, water, or surfaces that have been contaminated with the virus.

Symptoms usually start within 12 to 48 hours after infection and can last up to three days. People infected with norovirus are often very ill and may require hospitalization.

Norovirus is one of the most common causes of gastroenteritis in the United States, causing over 19 million cases each year. Norovirus is particularly common on cruise ships because of their close quarters, shared food and drink, and lack of hygiene standards. Since norovirus can survive for weeks on hard surfaces like countertops or door handles, it can easily spread among people who come into contact with these surfaces.

The best way to prevent norovirus infection is to practice good hygiene. This includes washing hands often with soap and water, avoiding contact with people who are sick, disinfecting surfaces regularly, and cooking food properly. It’s also important to avoid eating raw or undercooked shellfish as they can be contaminated with norovirus.

So is norovirus the cruise ship virus? Yes, it certainly can be but it’s important to remember that norovirus can spread through any situation where there are people in close contact such as hotels, schools or even at home. By practicing good hygiene and avoiding contact with people who are ill you can help reduce your risk of getting infected.

Conclusion:

Yes, Norovirus is commonly referred to as the ‘cruise ship virus’ due to its ease of spread in enclosed spaces like cruise ships. But it’s important to note that Norovirus can be spread anywhere where there are people in close contact such as hotels, schools or even at home. The best way to prevent Norovirus infection is by practicing good hygiene such as washing hands often with soap and water and avoiding contact with people who are ill.