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Cruise with Confidence: Expert Advice for Staying Healthy at Sea

Cruise Ship Health Hazards

Cruise ships are a popular form of travel, but they can also be a breeding ground for germs. The close quarters and shared spaces can make it easy for viruses and bacteria to spread.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the most common illnesses on cruise ships are gastrointestinal, respiratory, and skin infections. These illnesses can be caused by a variety of factors, including:

• Poor hygiene
• Contact with contaminated surfaces
• Eating or drinking contaminated food or water
• Exposure to sick passengers or crew members

How to Stay Healthy on a Cruise

There are a number of things you can do to reduce your risk of getting sick on a cruise ship. These include:

**Maintaining good hygiene:** Wash your hands frequently with soap and water or use alcohol-based hand sanitizer. Avoid touching your face, especially your eyes, nose, and mouth.

**Getting plenty of rest:** When you're well-rested, your immune system is stronger and better able to fight off infection.

**Eating a healthy diet:** Eat plenty of fruits, vegetables, and whole grains. These foods contain nutrients that can help boost your immune system.

**Avoiding alcohol and caffeine:** Alcohol and caffeine can dehydrate you, which can weaken your immune system.

**Getting vaccinated:** There are a number of vaccines that can protect you from the most common illnesses on cruise ships. Talk to your doctor about which vaccines are right for you.

**If You Get Sick on a Cruise:** If you do get sick on a cruise ship, it's important to seek medical attention as soon as possible. The ship's medical staff can provide treatment and advice on how to prevent the spread of illness to others.