5th May 2026
Cruises are meant to be relaxing escapes on the calm ocean, but the close living quarters, shared dining spaces, and constant interaction with large groups of people also make them ideal environments for the spread of illness.
A recent instance of suspected infectious disease on a cruise ship in the Atlantic Ocean, which reportedly resulted in multiple fatalities, has once again highlighted how quickly illness can move through these tightly contained environments when precautions are not followed.
Three people died in a hantavirus outbreak, according to the World Health Organisation. At least six people were infected. “Detailed investigations are ongoing, including further laboratory testing and epidemiological investigations. Medical care and support are being provided to passengers and crew. Sequencing of the virus is also ongoing,” the agency said to media.
Hantaviruses are a rare but serious group of viruses spread mainly through contact with infected rodents or their droppings, urine or saliva, and can cause a severe lung condition known as hantavirus pulmonary syndrome.
Early symptoms include fever, fatigue and muscle aches, which can rapidly progress to breathing difficulties as fluid builds in the lungs, with a significant risk of death once respiratory symptoms develop.
While such severe outcomes are rare, more common outbreaks of gastrointestinal bugs like norovirus regularly affect passengers worldwide and serve as a reminder that prevention is essential when travelling at sea.
One of the most effective defences is also the simplest: good hand hygiene. Cruise ships provide handwashing stations and sanitiser dispensers throughout public areas for a reason. Washing hands thoroughly with soap and warm water before eating and after using the bathroom significantly reduces the risk of picking up viruses.
Hand sanitiser is useful as a backup, but it is not a substitute for proper handwashing, particularly against hardy viruses that spread easily on surfaces. Regularly cleaning your hands after touching railings, elevator buttons, or shared equipment can make a noticeable difference.
Food choices also matter. Buffets are a cruise staple, but they can also be a hotspot for cross-contamination. Using serving utensils properly and avoiding direct hand contact with shared dishes is essential.
Where possible, opting for freshly prepared meals served in sit-down dining areas can reduce exposure. It’s also wise to avoid food that has been sitting out for long periods, especially items that may have been handled by multiple passengers.
Another key strategy is limiting close contact when illness is visible. If someone appears unwell or is showing symptoms such as coughing, vomiting or fever, it is sensible to move away and avoid shared surfaces.
Cruise ships are tightly packed environments, so small decisions like this can help reduce the spread of infection. It is also important not to share drinks, utensils or personal items.
For many travellers, motion sickness can be just as disruptive as a stomach bug. Choosing a cabin located mid-ship on a lower deck can help minimise the sensation of movement.
Spending time in fresh air, focusing on the horizon and avoiding heavy meals or alcohol before sailing are all proven ways to reduce symptoms.
If you are prone to seasickness, it is worth considering medication or preventative remedies before symptoms begin, rather than waiting until you already feel unwell.
General health habits also play a role. Staying hydrated, getting enough rest and moderating alcohol intake can help your body cope better with travel stress.
If symptoms do develop, reporting them early to onboard medical staff is important, as isolation and early treatment can prevent further spread among passengers.
Packing a small health kit can also be useful. Items such as pain relief, motion sickness tablets, rehydration sachets and basic cold remedies can make managing minor illness much easier without needing to rely on onboard pharmacies.
Cruising remains a safe and enjoyable way to travel, but like any shared environment, it relies on good hygiene, awareness and personal responsibility. With the right precautions, passengers can significantly reduce their risk and focus on enjoying the journey rather than recovering from it.
