Dear Dr. Dave and Dr. Dee, My husband and I are considering a cruise to Europe, but my neighbor told me that cruise ships are not very clean, and that we could get sick. We have never been on a cruise before. My neighbor also has never been on a cruise, so I don't know if she really knows, or is just trying to put a damper on our possible cruise plans? Do you know anything about cleanliness on cruise ships? Signed, Worried Dear Worried, While there have been a few reports of people getting sick on board a cruise ship, it is more the exception than the rule. Cruise ships are regularly inspected by the Center for Disease Control (see CDC at www.cdc.gov). Since 1975, and in cooperation with the cruise industry, the CDC had established the Vessel Sanitation Program. The program inspects ships with foreign itineraries to maintain sanitation levels on cruise ships, provide a healthy environment, and lower the risk of gastrointestinal disease outbreaks. Cruise ships are rated on water quality, food storage, preparation and handling, general cleanliness, and much more. Click on the link below for a complete list. Unannounced inspections take place twice a year, and the CDC publishes the results, known as the "Green Sheet". Scores can range from 1 to 100, with 86 being the minimal acceptable level. Click on the link below for their latest sanitation inspection results. Don't let sanitation worries keep you from cruising. Cruise ships are a fun, comfortable, and great way to visit many ports of call. You can view a specific cruise ship's sanitation report at the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention Vessel Sanitation Program site at www.cdc.gov |
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