Cruise Info for Beginners: Cruise Ship Sickness Outbreaks

Cruise Info for Beginners: Cruise Ship Sickness Outbreaks

Having been the victim of a Noro virus on a cruise myself, I can heartily applaud the notion that everyone should take responsibility to ensure proper handwashing technique, and self quarantining if symptoms develop after sailing.

As a health care provider, I can't say enough about how important this is. Noro is not (usually) a serious condition unless you are very young, very old, or debilitated from an illness. But it IS horrendously uncomfortable, and dehydration is very likely if you are unable to keep fluids down. Seeking immediate medical attention at the first signs of illness is important, as is following the instructions of the medical staff (including cabin quarantine). You won't starve if you have to stay in your cabin--they will bring you the diet prescribed by the medical staff.

You might miss some of the ports of call, but it is quite possible to extend the length of the symptoms if strict adherence to medical advice does not occur.

That being the case, wash or sanitize your hands early and often, and don't expose others if you do come down with symptoms.