Cruise-goers have fallen sick en masse in the past, their predicament on the high seas coming into sharp focus because the holidays can cost thousands of dollars and are often marketed as trips of a lifetime.
"Unfortunately, the more elderly demographic found on a typical liner are more likely to be susceptible to anything which might present a serious health challenge," warned Dr Simon Clarke, an associate professor at Britain's University of Reading. For now, U.S. authorities have recommended that travellers "reconsider" cruises to or in Asia, citing the risk of coronavirus-linked travel restrictions and quarantines.Stewart Chiron, a leading industry expert, says that cruise ships are nothing like the hotbed of viruses that they are painted out to be and cruise lines take "extensive precautions to keep ships clean".
"Cruise ships are much larger than most people realise. There's plenty of space for passengers to spread out in to have enjoyable, healthy experiences," he said. Cruise Lines International Association, the world's largest cruise industry trade organisation, says 17.8 million people took an ocean cruise in 2009, compared with last year's 31 million, demonstrating its continually growing popularity.
"Once this period concludes, there will be a surge of bookings and booking patterns will return to normal."Tara C. Smith, professor of epidemiology at Kent State University in Ohio, is not so convinced.
Incubators
Basically. Trapped in a floating town with thousands of people in the ocean. And because its basically a town it wasnt properly cleaned and sanitized between the last load of people and yours
It's pronounced 'cesspool'.
Yeah,sexual diseases, there's alot of screwing goes on a Cruise ship.
Just installing some more fear eh ctv?
It’s the only one they are currently locking down cruise ships and quarantining everyone for though.
Exactly why I will never go on a cruise ship.
Same as hospitals or any place else large growds of folks gather regularly. Sickness incubators .
Same as hospitals. Sicknesses live there.