Each year, millions of passengers embark from North American ports on cruise vacations.
Traveling on cruise ships exposes passengers to contained quarters and lots of other people. This means conditions may be ripe for transmission of germs, either from contaminated food or water, or more commonly through person-to- person contact.
The National Center for Environmental Health suggests these tips to help prevent the spread of illness:
- Wash your hands -- before and after eating or smoking; after touching your face or going to the bathroom, and when your hands are simply dirty.
- Leave the area if you see someone get sick (vomiting or diarrhea). Report the problem to cruise staff, if they haven't already been notified.
- Take care of yourself. Get plenty of rest and drink lots of water. Resting helps rebuild your immune system. Drinking water helps prevents dehydration.
- Be considerate of other people's health. If you're ill before taking a cruise, call the cruise line to determine if you can reschedule, and if there are alternatives to losing your deposit or fare.
Health Tip: Pack a First Aid Kit
A first aid kit may come in handy when you're traveling, so stash one in your car or bag before you leave home.
The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention suggests what to include in your kit:
- A reference card that includes first aid instructions.
- A few basics, such as an Ace bandage, gauze, tweezers, scissors, antiseptic and cotton-tipped swabs.
- Moleskin to put on blisters.
- Aloe vera gel for sunburn.
- A digital thermometer.
- Packets of oral rehydration solution.
- A copy of your health insurance card.
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