Cruising is one of more popular forms of travel, but the cruise industry continues to ride some wild waves. An increase of "sick ships" has plagued the seas over the past few years. Since 2002, the Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has received more reports of illness on cruise ships than ever before, and news reports continue to detail cases of norovirus in cruise passengers.
Why the sudden surge in sick passengers? According to the CDC, more people are opting to take cruises, which increases the spread of illness. As of August 2008, nine ships had reported outbreaks of norovirus or other illnesses to the CDC.
But vacationers shouldn't cancel their cruise plans just yet. The Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA) reports that more than 8.5 million people cruise each year from the U.S. and less than one percent falls ill. So pack your bags and bring your sunscreen, but before you board the ship make sure you know how to keep yourself healthy while sailing the seas.
What is Norovirus?
Norovirus is a type of gastrointestinal illness which is spread by eating food or touching a surface that is contaminated with the virus. It's also spread when people come in direct contact with someone with the virus. Most commonly known as the "stomach flu," norovirus is not usually serious but can last one to two days. Because norovirus is contagious, there is a higher risk of spreading the illness when people are in close contact with each other, such as on a cruise ship.
How to Prevent Illness:
Although gastrointestinal illnesses, like a norovirus, are contagious, there are ways that travelers and the cruise ships can prevent it or at least keep it contained.
Cruise Ships: According to the CLIA, their cruise ship members have an "outbreak prevention and response plan," which includes cleaning and disinfecting all rooms and public areas daily. Additionally, board games, poker chips and anything else a passenger may touch is disinfected. If a passenger does become ill, they may be asked to stay in their cabin or disembark at the next port.
Passengers: When cruising, there are some simple steps to take that could help prevent contracting an illness on a cruise ship. The CDC recommends:
- Washing your hands before and after eating and smoking
- Using hand sanitizer often
- Washing your hands after using the bathroom
- Leaving an area where someone is sick
- Drinking plenty of water
- Resting and maintaining a strong immune system
- Avoiding hand-shaking when there is an outbreak
- Removing and cleaning clothing and linens that have been contaminated during illness
What to Do if You Contract Norovirus:
You'll know if you're suffering from norovirus. Symptoms include nausea, vomiting and stomach cramping. You may also experience a low-grade fever, muscle aches and a headache, according to the CDC.
Unfortunately, there is no anti-viral medication that can fight off the illness. If you have fallen ill, make sure to drink plenty of fluids since the illness can cause dehydration (from vomiting and diarrhea). Juice and water are your best options.
For added peace of mind, consider researching several cruise lines and their ships before booking your trip. The CDC's Vessel Sanitation Program provides cruise ship inspection scores, a report and any corrective action that was taken.
Jennifer Jope
© Cheapflights Ltd
Updated September 2008
