Noroviruses: 6 tips for a healthy cruise

Norovirus is just a scary way to say “stomach flu.” Cruise passengers may be a bit more susceptible to such viruses given the constant and close proximity to others.

There are steps travelers can take to stay healthy and prevent illness while on a cruise ship.

Here are 6 Tips for a happy, healthy cruise:

1. Wash your hands! Do this as often as possible, especially in dining rooms, buffets, restrooms and -very importantly- the casino. Do not touch your face after using door handles or rails.
2. Use Sanitizer. – CleanWell creates a natural thyme-based hand sanitizer that won’t dry out your skin and is harmless to the ecosystem. They also make convenient wipes and sprays. Consider using a wipe on surfaces like slot machines and your stateroom handle. Cruise ships typically have hand sanitizer dispensers in dining rooms.
3. Stay hydrated. –Drinking plenty of water is the first step to staying healthy anywhere, anytime.
4. Eat well. – Vitamins and supplements can be a bit overrated and under-absorbed. The body loves fruits and veggies. Eat foods high in antioxidants like blueberries. An easy and more effective supplement than pill-form vitamins is Emergen-C, which is easy to travel with and can be found at most grocers. Taking one packet in water twice daily gives the body boost of B vitamins and full dose of vitamin C. It is also a great for long international flights and may prevent colds, which so easily spread between airline passengers.
5. Get some fresh air. –One of the best things about a cruise ship is the deck. Tropical cruises are great for swimming and enjoying some shuffle board, but even on chillier cruises through Alaska, or the Mediterranean in winter, it is important to get out when the ship is at sea. Fresh air is essential. Breathing recycled air for too long only increases the chances of becoming sick whether on a ship or in a house. Get outside, get some photos, or just take a nice walk.
6. RELAX! –Agonizing will only create stress, which only increases your chances of getting sick. All of the eating right, exercising and sanitizing in the world won’t hold a candle to a stress-free body. The immune system needs a hospitable environment to do its job. Keep it healthy by staying stress-free.