Recently it was reported that a study shows most Norovirus illnesses are contracted as a result of contaminated food in restaurants rather than the buffet line on a cruise ship. The apparent problem is the fact that individuals, not wanting to postpone their cruise, bring the virus with them – and there’s currently no way to detect someone in the beginning stages of the illness. I’ve never had Norovirus on a cruise but I know it could ruin an otherwise perfect vacation. The best prevention is a good washing of the hands with soap and water. Alcohol rub sanitizers are not very effective against Norovirus unless they are combined with benzalkonium chloride in a hand sanitizer.
Cheryl McCann has written an excellent article about what you can do to aid in the prevention of this disruptive illness:
