There have been numerouse healthy warnings been issued with a health warning following an outbreak of severe gastro onboard a number of Australian cruise ships.
The highly contagious norovirus has become enemy number one for cruise ships around the world, with 25 major on-board outbreaks of the resultant gastro recorded since the start of last year.
In some of the worst cases as many as 700 passengers on the one ship have been struck down by the virulent tummy bug — which is almost as common as the cold — but causes vomiting and diarrhoea, often leading to dehydration.
Maximise your cruise experience and protect against unwanted travel hassles with the top tips on staying healthy while you’re cruising at sea.
Wash Hands Often
Remember thousands of people have touched that doorknob before you, so bring some hand sanitiser with you. Compare ships inspection scores from the Center for Disease Control Vessel Sanitation Program at cdc.gov.
See A Doctor
Visit a travel specialist well before you depart. Take your intinerary with you so they can advise on the required and recommended vaccines. If you take medication, make sure you have enough for your entire trip and then some, to will allow for any delays due to unforeseen circumstances.
Try Not To Share
Avoid sharing plates, or having other people pass you plates, glasses or even common serving utensils. At a buffet make sure you have a couple of extra spoons handy to ladle food.
Watch What You Eat
Being on holiday at sea deosn’t mean you can’t be healthy. Opt for vegetables instead of chips, fish instead of burgers. Depending on where you are, it may be wise to avide raw food – bacteria and viruses that make you ill thrive in warmer climates.
Hit The Gym
Most cruise ships now come with state of the art fitness centres which you should try to make the most of. Regular excercise will help to bost your immune system.
Do Your Laundry Well
Norovirus can linger on clothes and garments that are not washed sufficiently. Choose hot long laundry cycles.
By following the advice above you should have a happy and healthy cruise.
