Experts weigh in on how to avoid germs on your next cruise.
The fun, happy images of cruise ship passengers being carefree and happy may mask the dangers lurking on board. Most passengers return rested, relaxed and very healthy. Before setting sail, however, it's important to familiarize yourself with the dirtiest places on the cruise ship so you don't end up isolated in your cabin.
Explains that the risk of getting sick on a cruise ship is very high because many people are confined to the same enclosed space for long periods of time Dr. Daniel Eganis an infectious disease specialist at Orlando Health Medical Group in Florida.
Dr. Egan added that norovirus, influenza, respiratory syncytial virus, human metapneumovirus, COVID-19 and Legionnaires' disease are just some of the health illnesses that cruise passengers can suffer from.
“Even a few sick passengers can potentially infect hundreds or thousands of people in a short period of time,” said Dr. William Huis a family medicine physician at Kaiser Permanente Southern California. He said viruses spread particularly quickly on cruise ships because many viruses can survive on hard surfaces for days. “This is why, despite thorough cleaning, some disease outbreaks continue to occur from one voyage to the next,” Dr Wu explained.
Dr. Egan said some passengers try to reduce their risk by traveling outside of normal cold and flu season, but that doesn't necessarily help. “They need to remember that cruise ships include international crew and passengers who are likely to come from areas where these viruses are still circulating. For example, countries in the Southern Hemisphere will enter cold and flu season from April to September.”
However, if you're considering canceling your cruise because you're worried about getting sick, don't ask for a refund right away.
“It's not that people should be afraid of going on cruise ships. They just should be more aware of their environment,” Dr. Egan explained. “The first way to fight all these infections is to wash your hands frequently. “
What can you do to stay healthy?
Simple soap and water can go a long way in protecting your health on a cruise ship.
“Wash your hands often with soap and warm water, especially before eating,” advises Dr. Wu. Additionally, while hand sanitizer is convenient, it can also be helpful. “Don't rely solely on hand sanitizer as it does not reliably kill all viruses and bacteria,” he added. Don't forget to avoid touching your face after touching a shared surface, Dr. Wu advises.
You can also check your cruise line’s safety score Before booking, it is recommended Jason R. Margulisis a partner and maritime attorney at Lipcon, Margulies and Winkleman PA, which has offices nationwide.
“If you're concerned about cleanliness on your cruise ship, I recommend looking at your ship's inspection scores, which are conducted randomly twice a year. A score of 86 or above is considered a pass, and this information is available to the public,” Margulies explains.
