>
Cruise passengers should beware of typhoid risk
Other maladies besides COVID-19 can be caught on a cruise ship
Simple precautions can help you stay healthy
You generally aren't in a typhoid-hot spot long enough when you're on a cruise. But it's still possible to get sick from the bacteria that causes typhoid fever, especially if you're not careful about what you eat and drink.
Typhoid fever is a bacterial infection that can cause a high fever, headache, and stomach pain. In severe cases, it can lead to death.
The bacteria that causes typhoid fever is found in contaminated food and water. It can also be spread through contact with an infected person.
Symptoms of typhoid fever usually appear within 1-3 weeks after exposure to the bacteria. The most common symptoms are:
- High fever
- Headache
- Stomach pain
- Constipation or diarrhea
- Nausea and vomiting
- Loss of appetite
If you think you might have typhoid fever, it's important to see a doctor right away. Treatment typically involves antibiotics.
There are a few things you can do to help prevent getting typhoid fever on a cruise ship:
- Get vaccinated against typhoid fever before you travel.
- Drink only bottled water or water that has been boiled.
- Eat only cooked food.
- Avoid contact with people who are sick.
- Wash your hands frequently with soap and water.
By taking these precautions, you can help reduce your risk of getting typhoid fever and other illnesses on a cruise ship.