Some facts about Norovirus and cruising
There has been a lot of media attention on “sick ships” as of late, and we wanted to give you some facts about Norovirus and cruising:
The overall frequency of norovirus on cruise ships remains about the same as in other areas where close contact occurs.
- Norovirus outbreaks occur more often where there are more people in a small area, such as nursing homes, schools, restaurants, and cruise ships.
- The cruise industry is under increased scrutiny as Health officials track illness specifically on cruise ships. Therefore, outbreaks are found and reported more quickly on a cruise ship than on land.
- Government agencies assist the cruise industry to prevent and control the introduction, transmission, and spread of gastrointestinal illnesses on cruise ships.
This is not affecting our travel bookings locally.
- While it’s understandable that you may have questions or concerns about contracting norovirus, this is not affecting our own travel bookings.
- Cruise travel in general is very safe.
- You may get more information directly from public health experts like the CDC.
It is important to protect yourself and the health of others by practicing healthy habits.
- Travelers should find out whether any existing medical conditions could put their own health at greater risk when traveling; furthermore, if contagious, they should seek medical advice on how their health could impact others they may encounter.
- Common sense measures, like frequent hand-washing – especially after going to the restroom and before eating food – will help prevent the onset of more common communicable illnesses.
- In addition, use alcohol-based hand sanitizer.
- Avoid shaking hands during outbreaks; think about the fist bump!
For information about how Celebrity Cruises is handling the most recent outbreak of Norovirus on Celebrity Mercury, this link will take you to an interview with Celebrity President and CEO Dan Hanrahan. If you have more questions and would like some facts about Norovirus and cruising, feel free to give us a call today!
Chuck and Laura Flagg own The Flagg Agency in Canton, GA and our number is 770-355- 9569
We are fee-based cruise consultants and our specialty is the selecting,
planning, marketing and administering cruises for groups of all sizes.
We help people find a cruise experience that matches both their wants AND their needs.
