In February I received some reports of a norovirus outbreak on Azamara Quest, starting with the Valentine's Day itinerary in Asia. The ship has been thoroughly cleaned several times and the number of cases per cruise has greatly diminished. But this is an excellent time to remind everyone that norovirus, and other easily transmitted illnesses, can strike a cruise ship at any time.
How does norovirus make you feel? Not great. Symptoms may include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and stomach cramping. Instead of looking for ways to treat the sickness, try to avoid it completely in the first place.
You can do this by following these tips from the Centers for Disease Control:
- Wash your hands frequently with warm water and soap (seriously, you can't do this too many times if you're concerned about norovirus)
- Don't wear a piece of clothing if you believe it may have come in contact with the virus; wash the item immediately
- Take advantage of the anti-bacterial lotion dispensers that are placed throughout the ship; if you pass one, use it!
Expert cruisers will also tell you not to touch hand railings or elevator buttons and to avoid buffet meals. (When there is a norovirus outbreak aboard a cruise ship, the buffets are often shut down or require crewmembers to serve each passenger to avoid additional person-to-food contact.)
Avoid touching your nose, eyes, and mouth and use antibacterial wipes to keep your hands clean throughout the day.
Learn more about norovirus, and ways to avoid it, by visiting the CDC's Norovirus Q&A.
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