Cruise ships offer a great way to see the world and have fun, but it is important to be aware that cruising can also come with risks. Cruise ships are vulnerable to a wide variety of illnesses, ranging from the common cold to more serious diseases such as Norovirus and Legionnaires’ Disease.
Common Cold – The common cold is one of the most prevalent illnesses on cruise ships, as it is highly contagious and can spread quickly in close quarters. Symptoms include sneezing, coughing, sore throat, watery eyes and a runny nose. While this illness usually only lasts for a few days, it can still be incredibly uncomfortable and make your vacation less enjoyable.
Norovirus – Norovirus is an extremely contagious virus that causes vomiting and diarrhea. Symptoms usually start within 12-48 hours of exposure and include nausea, vomiting, stomach pain and diarrhea. Most people recover from norovirus within 1-3 days but it can cause severe dehydration if not treated promptly.
Legionnaires’ Disease – Legionnaires’ Disease is a serious bacterial infection caused by Legionella bacteria. It is typically spread through aerosolized water droplets that are inhaled into the lungs.
Symptoms include coughing, fever, chest pain and difficulty breathing.
Conclusion
Cruise ships may be a great way to travel but they also come with their own set of health risks. Common illnesses such as the common cold and Norovirus are prevalent on cruise ships while more serious illnesses such as Legionnaires’ Disease are also possible. It is important to take precautions when traveling on a cruise ship to minimize the risk of getting sick or injured while onboard.