Hygiene and Illness on Board

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Hygiene and Illness on Board

On a cruise ship, many people spend days together in dining rooms, elevators, lounges, and cabin corridors. When infectious diseases are present, shared surfaces and close contact can facilitate transmission. Noroviruses in particular can spread rapidly on cruise ships. Consistent hand and restroom hygiene helps reduce the risk of infection.

How infections spread

Noroviruses are often transmitted from person to person. The pathogens are shed in stool and vomit and can enter the mouth via contaminated hands or surfaces. Virus-containing droplets can also be produced when someone vomits. Transmission is also possible through contaminated food, including raw foods such as salads, shrimp, or mussels. The risk of infection is especially high during the acute illness. This explains why an outbreak in a crowded communal setting can quickly affect many people.

Norovirus symptoms usually start suddenly. Typical symptoms include severe vomiting and diarrhea; nausea, abdominal pain, headaches, muscle aches, and extreme weakness can also occur. Vomiting or diarrhea may occur on its own. Fluid loss can put strain on the circulation. Similar symptoms can have different causes, so symptoms alone do not prove that someone has a particular infection.

Hygiene on board

Wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water, especially after using the toilet and before eating. Avoid close contact with sick people where possible, and follow the crew’s instructions—for example, if additional hygiene measures apply in certain areas or situations. Toilets, sinks, and frequently touched surfaces need to be cleaned carefully. On board, the crew organizes general cleaning; follow any individual instructions.

When it comes to food, make sure seafood is thoroughly cooked to help prevent transmission through contaminated food. Washing your hands before eating is still important, even when meals are served on board.

When to contact the onboard medical center

If you develop vomiting, diarrhea, or other significant symptoms during your trip, call the onboard medical center from your cabin and describe your symptoms. This allows the medical team to assess your situation and explain what to do next on board. Reporting requirements and cabin rules vary by cruise line; for example, Royal Caribbean Group requires guests to return to their cabin and call the onboard medical facility if they have diarrhea or vomiting—even if symptoms are mild. Follow your ship’s instructions and avoid shared areas until you hear back. Do not try to diagnose yourself: gastrointestinal symptoms can have various causes.

Vomiting and diarrhea cause significant fluid loss. Replace lost fluids by drinking; depending on the situation, you may also need electrolytes. Seek medical advice if symptoms are severe, persistent, or accompanied by a fever. Young children, pregnant people, older adults, and people who are frail are particularly sensitive to fluid loss. If you feel seriously ill, the onboard medical team is the right first point of contact.

Before your cruise

If you have a contagious illness before your trip begins, have your health assessed by a doctor and make your decision about traveling accordingly. If you have a chronic condition or regularly need medication, it is worth checking with the cruise line well in advance to confirm what care is available on your specific ship. Facilities and medical services vary from ship to ship. Preparing for your trip also includes planning for medical care and bringing any medications you need. The cruise travel tips explain the medical care available on board. Another common complaint is seasickness.