The dangers of cruises and listeria

Millions of people go on cruises annually and are repeat guests. Most who choose the cruise life continue to do so throughout their lives unless met with a bad experience. A bad experience of a cruise could range from sea sickness, COVID, being too expensive, or just not having a good time being trapped with hundreds of people on a boat for the duration. Whatever the case, there is another reason cruises can be dangerous to its passengers. Listeria is a serious food-borne illness that can spread like wildfire through a tightly packed cruise ship.

Listeria is very common

You might have noticed Listeria making an appearance in the news recently. In this case, listeria is spreading throughout the country by contaminated deli meats. So far 12 states have been affected. Now, picture a listeria outbreak happening on a cruise ship holding 500 people. Earlier in the year, 150 people were diagnosed with listeria after being on the luxury cruise ship, Queen Victoria. That ship was carrying roughly 2700+ passengers and members of the crew. The captain was alerted after people began experiencing severe gastrointestinal issues and needed medical attention.

What Listeria does to the body

Throughout the country, listeria outbreaks are common. There are numerous types of food that can fall victim to a listeria outbreak such as soft cheese (queso dip), smoked meats, fresh fruit or vegetables, hot dogs, deli meat, poultry, and unpasteurized milk. The symptoms can range from extremely mild headaches, diarrhea, and nausea, to a more serious sickness causing a stiff neck, convulsions, confusion, and loss of balance. In pregnant women or women who have just had a baby, the outcome can be deadly, especially if medical attention cannot be sought.

How to keep yourself safe from Listeria

Cruise ships are the last place you want to have an angry and vicious digestive tract for many reasons. There are some ways to stay safe, though nothing is 100% effective. Make sure to choose fully cooked food and always wash your hands before consumption. Steer clear of soft cheese and anything unpasteurized. It's also best to stay away from anything fresh that hasn't been cooked fully. You don't want your expensive cruise to end up being one long bathroom trip.