On a Princess Cruises ship returning through the Caribbean, more than 150 passengers and crew members contracted norovirus, a highly contagious virus that causes acute gastroenteritis, according to NBC News.

The CDC (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention) confirmed that 153 cases were reported on board, causing major inconvenience for travelers and highlighting hygiene and sanitation concerns on cruise ships.

Norovirus, often called the “stomach flu,” can lead to nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and abdominal cramps. It usually spreads through contaminated food or water or close contact between people.

Cruise ships, where passengers share confined spaces and common areas, traditionally have a higher risk of transmission, especially when the virus is already on board.

Company officials reported that after the outbreak was identified, sanitation measures were intensified: surfaces were thoroughly disinfected, staff increased cleaning of shared areas, and passengers received guidance on hygiene. Those who fell ill received appropriate medical care. Many travelers, however, had to remain in their cabins for much of the cruise to avoid spreading the virus.

Infectious disease experts note that norovirus is one of the most common causes of illness on cruise ships and other crowded, enclosed environments. Outbreaks occur annually, and even strict preventive practices cannot entirely prevent transmission. In such cases, key measures include personal hygiene, frequent handwashing, and avoiding contact while symptomatic.

Despite the outbreak, the cruise continued, and the company pledged to review and improve procedures to reduce the risk of similar incidents in the future.