Cruise vacations offer a unique and relaxing escape, but the outbreak of illnesses can quickly disrupt the experience. With recent reports of cruise ship illnesses, it’s crucial to understand how to stay safe and healthy while enjoying your seafaring adventure. This guide will provide essential tips and preventative measures to help you avoid getting sick on a cruise ship.
Recent Incidents of Cruise Ship Illnesses
Recently, 25 passengers returning from a cruise fell ill with nausea during their flight home. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reported that the passengers were on United Flight 1528 from Vancouver to Houston on May 31. Upon landing, CDC public health officers evaluated the ill passengers, but none required further medical follow-up.
The flight had 163 passengers, 75 of whom were on the same cruise. Although the specific cruise line was not identified, it is believed the passengers may have been on Royal Caribbean International’s Radiance of the Seas, which had a confirmed norovirus outbreak in April.
Common Illnesses on Cruise Ships
The CDC notes that the most common illnesses on cruise ships include respiratory illnesses, gastrointestinal infections, and other vaccine-preventable diseases. Respiratory illnesses like colds, influenza, and COVID-19 can spread quickly due to the close living quarters and communal spaces on ships.
Gastrointestinal illnesses, often caused by norovirus, are also highly contagious. Symptoms include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and stomach pain, typically appearing within 12 to 48 hours of exposure. Although most people recover within a few days, they can still spread the virus after symptoms subside.
Why Are Cruise Ships Susceptible to Outbreaks?
Cruise ships’ close living quarters and communal spaces make it easier for bacteria and viruses to spread. Additionally, passengers frequently join the cruise at different stops, introducing new germs. Cruises also visit locations where passengers may be exposed to diseases like malaria, yellow fever, dengue fever, Zika, chikungunya, and Lyme disease through mosquito or tick bites.
Food-borne illnesses are another risk due to the communal dining settings and food-handling practices on board. Port visits can expose travelers to local diseases, which they can bring back on board, increasing the risk of outbreaks.
Preventative Measures to Stay Safe on a Cruise
To reduce the risk of illness, follow these preventative measures:
- Consult a Healthcare Provider: Before your trip, discuss risks, vaccinations, and preventative strategies with your healthcare provider, especially if you have chronic health conditions, are immunocompromised, elderly, or pregnant.
- Practice Good Hygiene: Regularly wash your hands with soap and water, especially after using the bathroom, before eating, and after touching surfaces. Alcohol-based hand sanitizers are not effective against norovirus.
- Wear a Mask: Consider wearing a mask in crowded or poorly ventilated areas to reduce the risk of respiratory illnesses.
- Use Insect Repellent: In areas where insect-borne diseases are prevalent, use EPA-registered insect repellent containing DEET.
- Follow Food Safety Practices: Be cautious with food and water consumption, and follow any food safety guidelines provided by the cruise line.
- Seek Medical Care: If you feel unwell, seek care from the ship’s medical staff immediately to prevent spreading illness to others.
- Get Vaccinated: Ensure you are up-to-date on all recommended vaccinations, including those for influenza and COVID-19.
What to Do If You Get Sick on a Cruise
If you start feeling ill on a cruise, take the following steps:
- Isolate Yourself: Stay in your cabin to avoid spreading the illness to other passengers.
- Seek Medical Attention: Contact the ship’s medical staff for an evaluation and follow their recommendations.
- Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of fluids to stay hydrated, especially if you are experiencing gastrointestinal symptoms.
- Practice Good Hygiene: Continue to wash your hands frequently and avoid touching your face.
Thoughts
While cruise vacations can be enjoyable, they also come with the risk of illness outbreaks. By following these preventative measures and staying informed about common cruise ship illnesses, you can significantly reduce your chances of getting sick and ensure a safer, more enjoyable trip.
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