Sadly with the outbreak of Norovirus on Royal Caribbean's Explorer of the Seas, there's a lot of attention being put on this nasty little bug. The good news is if you are going on a cruise, there are steps you can take to avoid getting infected too.
How do you get Norovirus?
It's important to understand how Norovirus is spread to be able to avoid getting it. Norovirus is acute gastroenteritis, which generates symptoms such as vomiting, diarrhea and stomach pain.
Norovirus is spread from person to person through food or water that is contaminated with the virus as well as touching contaminated surfaces.
The Centers for Disease Control (CDC) says Norovirus is commonly spread by contact with people who are infected by the virus.
How can you avoid getting Norovirus?
- First and foremost, washing your hands thoroughly with warm water and soap prior to eating or drinking is the best defense.
- In addition, washing your hands after using the restroom is always a good idea.
- If someone you know is sick, keep in mind they can spread the disease up to 3 days after they recover so avoid contact with them.
- If an outbreak happens, also refrain from shaking hands.
- If any clothing is contaminated with vomit or stool, be sure to wash the clothing immediately to avoid the spread of the virus.
Norovirus requires you to get in physical contact with it. It's not spread via the air and with good hygiene, you can stand a good chance of avoiding getting sick.
