All aboard: Don't let a medical emergency ruin your cruise
Jill Overmyer
Going on a cruise can be a great way to get some rest and relaxation. But a sudden illness could ruin your time in paradise. Here are some tips for keeping sickness and the related financial stresses far away from your next ocean getaway.
Tips for avoiding illness
Mingling with your fellow passengers, going on adventures in exotic ports of call and indulging in all-you-can-eat buffets are just some of the perks of taking a cruise. However, they also can ruin your vacation.
According to the federal Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), certain contagious illnesses spread easily on cruise ships, which put thousands of strangers in close quarters. And changes in activity levels, diet and sleep patterns can exacerbate chronic illnesses.
Before and after you set sail, passengers should do the following, according to CDC:
- Make sure your vaccinations (flu, chickenpox and measles/mumps/rubella) are current before departing.
- Wash your hands or use hand sanitizer frequently, especially after being in crowded areas or touching things other people have come in contact with, like bathroom fixtures and railings.
- Observe proper precautions for food and drink, like avoiding raw or undercooked foods. While on shore, always drink bottled water or other sealed beverages; avoid ice.
- If you are prone to seasickness or are concerned that you might be, talk to your doctor about medications that can help you. Ask whether any medications you're already taking may heighten the risk of nausea or sea sickness.
What to do if you get sick
A large cruise ship should have the resources to treat the vast majority of illnesses and injuries. The American College of Emergency Physicians has set the some guidelines for cruise ship medical facilities. They must include:
- An infirmary with a licensed medical staff that is on call 24 hours a day.
- An intensive care unit.
- One bed for every 1,000 passengers.
- Medication and equipment for medical emergencies.
- Basic diagnostic and laboratory equipment for a wide range of needs, including electrocardiograms (EKGs), blood chemistry analysis and urinalysis.
A major medical emergency may require that you be transferred to a medical facility on land after you've been stabilized. This can get expensive and complicated in foreign countries, so you'll need health insurance that covers you abroad or travel insurance if you don't want to pay out of pocket.
Travel insurance
Travel insurance can give travelers some extra peace of mind during a long trip, particularly when they're traveling to international destinations. U.S. health insurance coverage often is not accepted overseas, and language barriers can create difficulties when seeking care in a medical emergency.
Travel insurance is available from many specialty insurance providers and travel companies. Some policies reimburse you for the trip itself, while others cover medical expenses and emergency evacuations.
