Norovirus outbreak threatens Rhodes hotels as cases surge among tourists
A sharp rise in norovirus cases has hit Rhodes, with hundreds of patients reported and many hotel guests falling ill.
Rhodes is experiencing a significant norovirus outbreak, as evidenced by 851 reported cases at the island's general hospital in August, up by 650 from August 2025. A Swedish vacation party of eight fell ill despite strict hygiene measures, and they allege that half the hotel is affected and that the situation may continue until the hotels shut in November. Hotel management says the claim of 50% infection is inaccurate and notes only a small number of cases among the 2,500 guests present.
Ving's communications director confirms awareness of a few ongoing illnesses but emphasizes that the majority of visitors remain healthy. Guests criticize the hotel's cleanliness, citing dirty napkins and mixing sick and healthy travelers. The cause of the outbreaks remains under investigation, with speculation about contaminated water and other sources.
Why it matters
The outbreak threatens tourist health and the seasonal economy of a major Greek holiday destination.
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