Cruise Ship Outbreaks Rise in 2025, Norovirus Most Common
In 2025, there were 23 recorded outbreaks of gastrointestinal illnesses on cruise ships, with norovirus being the most prevalent. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention's Vessel Sanitation Program reported these incidents, highlighting the ease with which viruses can spread in the confined spaces of cruise ships. The norovirus, known for its high contagion rate, spreads through contaminated food, water, or surfaces. Despite the outbreaks, cruising remains generally safe, though the concentration of people in semi-enclosed spaces poses a risk for virus transmission. 
