On June 11, 2009 the World Health Organization (WHO) raised the level of influenza pandemic alert to its highest level. Infections from the H1N1 swine flu have climbed in North America, Europe and around the world. But what are the facts about Swine Flu on cruise ships? Is it still safe to cruise? Besides cruise insurance, what should passengers do to protect themselves while on vacation?
Swine Flu on Cruise Ships
- On June 10 and June 11, 2009, a Royal Caribbean vessel, the Adventure of the Seas, was denied entry to two Caribbean Islands. Both St. Lucia and Antigua did not let the Adventure of the Seas dock after the ship reported that three people onboard exhibited flu symptoms. But, after tests came back, it was then discovered that those persons did not have the H1N1 virus.
- Last May, the Pacific Dawn, a P&O Australia vessel was denied entry to all of its ports on a 10-day itinerary. This decision was based on the ship reporting flu symptoms experienced by three persons onboard. Tests later came back negative for the H1N1 virus.
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the master of a ship destined for a U.S. port must report any ill person among the ship’s passengers or crew to public health authorities. In addition, each port of call worldwide requires this type of reporting before a ship makes its arrival. There are criteria that the ships’ doctors use to determine if the ill person is a reportable case.
- Required Reporting – Sick persons with a fever of 100 degrees Fahrenheit or greater, that lasts more than 48 hours, must be reported. A fever, plus another symptom such as a rash or swelling of the lymph glands must also be reported. In addition, an ill person that has experienced diarrhea three or more times over a 24-hour period must also be reported.
- Additional Reporting of Sick Persons – Cruise ships also report when ill persons have a fever plus another condition such as difficulty breathing, a cough that has lasted more than two weeks, or unexplained bleeding.
Passengers on cruises can protect themselves against the H1N1 Swine Flu virus, as well as other viruses, by washing their hands frequently, using antibacterial hand sanitizer, and avoiding touching their nose and mouth. The other option is to get the H1N1 vaccine.
It is unfortunate when cruises miss ports or have their itineraries diverted due to unforeseen circumstances, such as the H1N1 virus. But most cruise lines will provide compensation for passengers on cruises where their itinerary was severely affected. According to P&O Australia, each passenger on the Pacific Dawn's swine flu cruise will be reimbursed for 75% of their cruise, plus a 25% credit towards a future cruise.
Renee Ruggero - Renee is a published travel writer and cruise industry insider with more than 1,000 days on cruise ships, visiting over 50 countries.
