cruise ship medical center

Do cruise ships have doctors, nurses, medical centers or hospitals?

Do cruise ships have medical facilities with doctors and nurses on board? The short answer is yes.

When you board a cruise ship you become part of a community of people of all ages who will be together for several days, a week or more. On large cruise ships carrying thousands of passengers and crew, your community may be the size of a town or even a small city. To handle any health issues that come up in this floating metropolis, cruise lines employ doctors and nurses who work out of an onboard medical center.

To be clear, the onboard facility is not a hospital – it's more akin to a health center or ambulatory care unit. The professionals who work there have training in emergency medicine and the equipment to stabilize a patient even in dire circumstances. Mostly, though, what they deal with are things like sprained ankles, upset stomachs and people who have forgotten to pack medication.

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That said, in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic, many cruise lines have expanded their medical care facilities on ships and added new requirements for medical personnel. Royal Caribbean , for example, now requires all its doctors to have training in acute respiratory illness and has added an infection control officer who oversees the line's infection control plan on each ship.

If you have an emergency on any cruise ship, you can push a button on your stateroom phone for help – the equivalent of dialing 911 from your home phone. For minor ailments, you can visit the medical facility during set office hours.

Who are the medical personnel?

The American College of Emergency Physicians, in conjunction with the Cruise Lines International Association, sets strict standards for who treats patients, as well as guidelines for medical facilities, on ships operating from the U.S. Similar authorities are involved for international cruises. All medical staff are both certified and experienced.

Under the ACEP standards, physicians must have three years of post-graduate/post-registration experience in general and emergency medicine or be board-certified in emergency medicine, family medicine or internal medicine. Staff also must be certified in advanced life support or have certification or physician specialist training in areas such as emergency medicine, anesthesiology or critical care.

Ships that carry children under age 12 are required to have at least one physician with training in pediatrics or with an equivalent emergency training that involves kids.

Training requirements for nurses also are quite detailed. Typically, one of the nurses is a trained paramedic and all nurses are experienced registered nurses.

Medical staff varies by ship size, but typically ships have a doctor and at least two nurses. The world's largest cruise ships may have two doctors and five or six nurses. River ships and small ships that hover close to shore have less staff since they can easily access health facilities on land.

Cruise lines find shipboard nurses and doctors via worldwide recruitment companies. Medical personnel typically work on ships on two- to six-month contracts.

Doctors and nurses report to a chief medical officer at the cruise line's headquarters, who is available 24 hours a day to deal with emergencies.

What to expect at a cruise ship medical center

Cruise ship medical centers usually are located on a lower deck, set apart from crowded areas and close to the back-of-the-house crew facilities. The medical personnel treat both passengers and crew.

While medical personnel are on call 24 hours a day, most passengers visit during scheduled hours. Carnival Cruise Line 's facilities, for instance, are open on embarkation day from 8 to 9 a.m. and 3 to 5 p.m; on sea days from 9 a.m. to noon and 3 to 6 p.m.; and on port days from 8 to 10 a.m. and 4 to 6 p.m.

Inside the medical center you'll find a waiting room – where you will fill out medical history forms as you would in any doctor's office – and exam rooms. Only if your medical situation requires it will you see a separate area with hospital beds, a small surgical suite where wound suturing and other minor surgeries may be conducted, or the ICU or isolation rooms.

Equipment in shipboard medical centers includes defibrillators, cardiac monitors, external cardiac pacing capability, a ventilator, oxygen tanks, x-ray machines and lab equipment. Some lines add technology; for example, select Carnival ships have thrombolytic therapy (to break down blood clots) and pulse oximetry (to test oxygen levels). There will also be wheelchairs and stretchers.

Pharmacy supplies include seasickness pills, aspirin and other over-the-counter products, antibiotics and limited supplies of prescription medications, as well as emergency medications such as those needed for advanced cardiac life support.

Serious situations

While most medical complaints on ships are routine, the medical team is equipped to perform life support services and stabilize anyone seriously ill. Personnel trained in medivac procedures would then generally medically disembark the patient on a stretcher at the next port of call and have the person transferred to a hospital.

If an extreme case occurs at sea, the U.S. Coast Guard (or equivalent local authority overseas) will be called in to hoist the patient off the ship by boat or helicopter.

No one likes to think about it, but your ship may also have a morgue with refrigerated units.

Who pays for treatment

Cruise ship doctors work as independent contractors and may charge a basic hourly fee. There will be additional charges for medications and tests.

All must be paid for at the time of service and will be billed to your shipboard spending account. You'll receive a receipt to submit to your health insurance company for possible reimbursement. Be aware: Many personal insurance policies purchased at home do not cover you while traveling outside the U.S.

Related: A guide to travel insurance for cruises

If you purchased separate travel health insurance from your cruise line or a third-party provider you will still be required to pay for the services up front and may have to wait several months to be reimbursed.

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Medical Services

Should a guest require medical attention while aboard one of our vessels, the Medical Center staff is available to assist 24 hours a day. The on board medical centers are staffed and equipped to treat routine medical conditions as well as to initiate stabilization of more serious conditions. Physicians are available to render services at a customary fee. While at sea or in port, the availability of medical care may be limited.

Medical Center Hours The Medical Center has daily office hours which are listed in the HUB App. The medical staff is on call 24 hours a day for emergencies. Routine hours are subject to temporary change due to extenuating circumstances: 

• Embarkation day: 8:00am-9:00am and 3:00pm-5:00pm
• Sea days: 9:00am-12:00pm and 3:00pm-6:00pm
• Port days: 8:00am-10:00am and 4:00pm-6:00pm

A charge for medical services will be billed to the guest's Sail & Sign® Account and a receipt will be provided for the guest to submit to their medical insurance provider upon return for possible reimbursement.

The physicians on board are independent contractors and are entitled to render services at a customary fee which may vary from ship to ship based on the time of day. The basic fee does NOT include medication, tests or treatment. 

Note: Guests who purchased  Carnival Vacation Protection™  may be eligible for reimbursement of up to $10,000 for covered medical-related expenses and up to $30,000 for necessary Emergency Medical Evacuation expenses should they become ill or injured or require medical evacuation while on their cruise vacation. The medical benefits are secondary to coverage the guest may have through their regular health insurance provider(s). Refer to  https://www.carnival.com/about-carnival/vacation-protection.aspx for additional details.

Medication Over-the-Counter medications for cold, cough, upset stomach or other minor illnesses can be purchased at the Medical Center during business hours. In addition, the shops on board may carry some of these items. Prescription drugs and vitamins may not be readily available, either on board the ship or in the ports. 

Meclizine, motion sickness pills can be purchased at the Medical Center, Guest Services or through Room Service. The cost is $3.29 USD for four pills. We do not carry motion sickness patches or wristbands. A motion sickness injection is available for a fee at the Medical Center but will only be administered to those who are actively vomiting and not as a preventative measure.

Diabetes/Medicine Storage

Staterooms on a number of  ships are equipped with  non-stocked mini bar units which are designed to maintain the temperature of beverages. Please do not use them to store medications that have specific temperature requirements. Should you need to store medicine that needs proper refrigeration, medi-coolers are available on board in limited quantities, and on a first come, first serve basis - please visit our Guest Services Desk once on board; a $75 refundable deposit is required. If a medi-cooler is not available, our ship’s Medical Center will arrange storage - please contact them once on board. Note: A small, personal-sized cooler no larger than 12” x 12” x 12” for the purpose of housing medications is permitted as carry-on luggage. 

Medical Staffing and Equipment  In order to maintain a safe and comfortable environment for our guests, our medical centers meet or exceed the standards established by the Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA) and the American College of Emergency Physicians (ACEP).

Our medical centers are staffed by qualified physicians and nurses who are committed to providing the highest quality of shipboard medical care. Medical staffing is correlated to the size of the ship and varies from one physician and three nurses to as many as two physicians and five nurses.

Ship’s physicians meet or exceed the credentialing guidelines established by the cruise ship medicine section of the American College of Emergency Physicians (ACEP). In addition, doctors must demonstrate competent skill levels and hold current certification in basic and advanced cardiac life support and cardiac care, have experience in general medicine or general practice including emergency or critical care, and have one to three years clinical experience and minor surgical skills, and board or similar international certification is preferred. The doctors on board are independent contractors.

Shipboard medical facilities are set up to provide reasonable emergency medical care for guests and crew. In cases of extreme emergency where more comprehensive facilities are required, patients are referred to shoreside facilities.

In addition to standard lifesaving equipment such as defibrillators and external pacemakers, our medical centers carry some of the latest in medical technology including thrombolytic therapy, electrocardiograph machines, lab equipment, pulse oximetry and x-ray machines on many of our ships.

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How Much do Medical Services Cost on a Cruise Ship?

by Prof. Cruise · September 19, 2022

While cruising is mostly fun and games, there are also some serious things one must consider when planning a cruise vacation. Like should I spend my onboard credit on a new purse, an excursion, or twice daily slices of chocolate cake from the coffee shop (cake, always the cake!). Also, what happens if I become ill from consuming so much cake? Which brings us to today’s topic:

What Happens if I get Ill or Injured on a Cruise?

Every cruise ship has a medical center onboard, usually located on a lower deck, available to both crew and passengers. While medical staff will be on call 24/7 for serious medical emergencies, posted walk-in hours (usually a few hours in the morning and a few hours in the late afternoon or evening) will be available for evaluation, testing, and minor injuries and illnesses.

Ship medical centers will have all necessary equipment, supplies, and medications to evaluate and treat minor illnesses and injuries as well as to stabilize critically ill patients until they can be transferred to a land-based medical facility. Defibrillators, ventilators, cardiac monitors, oxygen tanks, x-ray machines, and lab equipment will be available.

If a crew member or passenger becomes seriously injured or ill on a cruise, they will be stabilized onboard and, when necessary, transported via ambulance to a hospital at the next port. In the most severe cases, they will be transported via helicopter or a smaller boat directly from the cruise ship where they can receive life-saving care at an appropriate facility on land.

What Happens if Someone Dies on a Cruise Ship?

This has happened on several of my cruises and is always a somber experience for everyone onboard. However, it’s also a personal goal of mine – to die doing the thing I love most (when it’s my time, of course – don’t get ideas so you don’t have to read any more of my annoying blog posts). In any case, in the event of a death onboard, there’s a small morgue on most ships and support and assistance will be extended to family and travel companions.

Who Staffs a Cruise Ship Medical Center?

Cruise ship medical centers are staffed by 1-2 doctors and 2-6 nurses, depending on the size of the ship. Doctors must have training in emergency or critical care and, if children are allowed onboard, in pediatrics. Usually at least one nurse is also a trained paramedic.

How Does Billing Work at a Cruise Ship Medical Center?

In most cases insurance will NOT be accepted at a cruise ship medical center, even if you’ve purchased additional travel insurance through your cruise line or independently. All incurred expenses will be added to your onboard account and must be paid before debarkation. The medical center WILL provide a receipt and itemized list of expenses that you can submit to your insurance for possible reimbursement.

Will my Regular Insurance Pay for Medical Expenses on a Cruise?

In most cases, no (but you should double check with your specific insurance plan for your specific itinerary). It is STRONGLY advised that you purchase a travel insurance policy that will cover the cost to treat illnesses and injuries you may incur on a cruise (either on the ship or in port). It’s advisable to compare plans and rates carefully and purchase a plan that works best for your individual circumstances.

I NEVER recommend purchasing a plan through a cruise line, as they cost more and don’t offer great coverage. Many don’t realize this, but cruise lines generally hike up the cost of a 3rd party plan and pocket the difference. In most cases, there really aren’t any advantages to purchasing through your cruise line.

I always purchase my plans from this site :

You can compare plans and rates and read reviews. As a place to start, I encourage you to match the coverage your cruise line is offering to see how much less you’ll pay if you purchase independently. Some insurance companies also offer an annual travel plan, which may make sense if you cruise frequently. You should also check with your credit card companies, as some of them also offer free travel insurance (although usually the coverage isn’t great).

In deciding how much insurance coverage you need, it’s helpful to know how much medical services actually cost on a cruise ship.

How Much do Medical Services on a Cruise Ship Cost?

Medical personnel generally work as independent contractors on cruise ships and set their own prices, so cost will vary some by ship, even within the same cruise line. But to give you a few points of reference, I visited the medical centers on two of my recent cruises, one on Carnival and one on NCL.

Here were the posted charges for basic services on Carnival:

On NCL, I received a much more detailed cost breakdown for services offered onboard. Costs ranged from $1 for a vending machine bandaid to $1199 for a doctor medical evacuation escort (which would be just one of many costs associated with a serious medical emergency onboard). And if you’re wondering how much a wound repair of over 30 cms on the genitalia would run you: $759. But you’ll easily cover the cost with the YouTube video capturing the moment if impact: “Oh *!$*!*#*!**!!*#*@$*#!!!!!”

Extra Credit Pro Tip: Pack a small first aid kit and over-the-counter meds for minor injuries and illnesses.

Detailed Costs for Medical Services Available on the Norwegian Sun:

While a simple office visit for a minor injury or illness may actually cost less than you expected and you’d be able and willing to pay for it out-of-pocket, it’s always a good idea to prepare for the worst case scenario. Even those young and healthy can suffer a serious and unexpected medical event at sea or in port. The cost of critical care, evacuation, and hospital treatment in a foreign country can be enough to bankrupt those without proper insurance coverage. Don’t take the chance! And with that…

Class Dismissed!

Homework (10 points): Read, 10 Things I Wish I’d Known Before My First Cruise and share your best tips for new cruisers to the comments. Please also share any experience you’ve had with a cruise ship medical center.

And don’t forget to subscribe to the blog (scroll up to the top right if on a computer or keep scrolling down if on a mobile device) and follow Prof. Cruise on your favorite social social media sites:

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*I receive a small commission at no extra cost to you when you purchase products or services through links on my site. All funds go to support the work of the blog. Thanks for your support!

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4 Responses

• Pingbacks 2

2 comments: 1) We started cruising in our 60s and when I priced insurance for our age bracket, all of the companies I checked cost more than Princess (flat rate: 10% of the fare). We’re in our mid-70s now and the comparison still holds. This is comparing essentially the same coverage: Princess vs. everyone else. 2) Not ALL medical centers charge for everything. I needed a non-prescription med that I ran out of on the cruise. It wasn’t stocked in the shops. Went to the medical center and spent 15 minutes with the nurse at no charge. She provided the medication for a reasonable fee.

Good to know! Thanks for sharing your experience!

[…] My cruise to Australia and New Zealand is the most expensive I’ve ever purchased. And it likely will be for you too. Either way, I highly recommend you purchase travel insurance to cover the cost of your trip and any medical expenses you may incur on the ship or in port (You can learn about how much medical services cost on a cruise ship HERE.). […]

[…] My cruise to Australia and New Zealand is the most expensive I’ve ever purchased. And it likely will be for you too. Either way, I highly recommend you purchase travel insurance to cover the cost of your trip and any medical expenses you may incur on the ship or in port (You can learn about how much medical services cost on a cruise ship HERE.). […]

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About Prof. Cruise

Given name Sarah, but also answers to Prof. Cruise. Retired after 10 years as a college professor to focus full-time on her primary research interest: travel. With a concentration in cruising.  Home port: Seattle.  Mom of a shaggy-haired dog and a shaggy-haired human.  Lover of books and dessert.  Fancies herself a bit of a comedian – you’ve been warned.

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Cruise Ship Medical Facilities: A Comprehensive Guide

Advertorial: This post contains sponsored content, advertisements, or affiliate links. Read our full advertorial disclosure here .

Cruise vacations are incredibly popular, with over 30 million passengers expected to set sail in 2024. As more people opt for cruises, it’s important to understand the medical facilities and care available on cruise ships.

This guide will provide a detailed overview of cruise ship medical centers, compare facilities across major cruise lines, and answer frequently asked questions to help you plan your next cruise.

Overview of Cruise Ship Medical Facilities

Nearly all cruise ships have an onboard medical facility and medical staff to attend to health issues that may arise during your voyage. According to the Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA) , requirements for cruise ship medical centers include:

• Available 24/7 while sailing with at least one licensed doctor and two nurses.
• Complies with guidelines from the American College of Emergency Physicians (ACEP).
• Has equipment for medical diagnosis and treatment, including ECG machines, oxygen, IV fluids, splints, dressings, and more.
• Stores a supply of common prescription medications that the medical staff can dispense.
• Has an isolation ward for quarantining passengers with infectious diseases.

The size and capabilities of medical facilities vary across cruise lines. Some have basic clinics staffed by nurses, while mega ships operate multi-bed hospitals with imaging equipment and operating theaters. Medical fees also differ – some facilities charge for visits and medications, while others offer emergency care free of charge.

Comparison of Medical Facilities by Top Cruise Lines

To help select your next cruise, here’s an overview of medical centers and policies across 5 major cruise lines :

1. Royal Caribbean

• Staffing: At least 3 doctors and 4 nurses depending on ship size.
• Capabilities: X-ray, CAT scan (on some ships), ICU, ventilators, surgery suite, morgue.
• Fees: Professional fees for medical services. Medications and tests are extra costs.

2. Carnival Cruise Line

• Staffing: Minimum of 1 doctor and 3 nurses. More for larger ships.
• Capabilities: Medical ward, ICU, defibrillators, general medical equipment.
• Fees: Free emergency care. Charges may apply for medications or non-urgent treatment.

3. Norwegian Cruise Line

• Staffing: At least 1 doctor and 2 nurses.
• Capabilities: Emergency room, laboratory, medical equipment, isolation ward, morgue.
• Fees: No fee for examination and treatment at the medical center. Medications are extra.

4. Princess Cruises

• Staffing: At least 1 doctor and 3 nurses. Staff count rises for bigger ships.
• Capabilities: X-ray, ventilators, cardiac units, basic medical equipment.
• Fees: No fee for emergency care. Charges apply for medications and non-critical treatment.

5. Disney Cruise Line

• Staffing: At least 1 doctor and 3 nurses for regular cruise ships. More personnel on larger ships.
• Capabilities: ICU, isolation ward, lab, general medical equipment.
• Fees: No fee for urgent care. Guests are charged for medications or tests.

While every major cruise line offers 24/7 access to medical care, emergency treatment policies and specific resources can vary. Review the cruise’s website or ask your travel agent for full details on their medical facilities and associated costs.

Key Takeaways

• Nearly all cruise ships have 24/7 medical centers staffed by qualified personnel to care for health issues onboard. Larger ships operate multi-bed hospitals.
• Emergency treatment for injuries and life-threatening illnesses is available for free. But charges may apply for medications, tests or non-critical care.
• Cruise medical staff offer acute care, preventive services, prescriptions and telemedicine consults. But not long-term hospitalization or complex procedures.
• Travel insurance with emergency evacuation coverage is vital when cruising. Most medical centers only accept cash/credit payments rather than insurance billing.
• In a major medical emergency, ships activate emergency protocols – either diverting course towards the nearest port or launching medivac via tender or helicopter for hospital transfer.

With a well-equipped medical facility and trained doctors on 24-hour standby, cruise ships provide quick aid for health issues that spring up mid-voyage. Review information on the medical centers and insurance policies before your departure so you can cruise confidently.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Here are answers to some often asked questions about medical centers onboard cruise ships:

How are medical emergencies handled on cruises? Cruise ship medical staff are trained to handle medical emergencies like heart attacks, strokes, fractures etc. Based on the situation, they provide emergency care in the onboard facility, arrange specialist consult over telemedicine or diverts the ship for emergency evacuation if hospitalization is required.

Can cruise ships offer complex treatment like surgery? Large cruise ships have operation theatres and specialist doctors to perform minor surgeries, including appendectomies. But they lack resources for advanced surgery. The ship diverts for emergency evacuation in such critical cases via Coast Guard assistance or tender boats.

What healthcare services do cruise medical centers provide? Cruise ship medical facilities offer emergency services, acute care for new injuries or illnesses, ongoing treatment for pre-existing conditions, and preventive medicine. Some also offer basic dental care, medical testing and sexual health services. Telemedicine consults for remote diagnosis are also often available.

Do medical facilities on cruises accept travel insurance? While some cruise lines may be able to directly bill your travel insurance provider, others only accept cash, credit or traveler’s checks. It’s advisable to discuss reimbursement procedures with your insurer and have emergency medical transportation insurance for cruise travel.

Can passengers get prescription refills on cruises? Yes, the onboard pharmacy carries common prescription medications that the medical staff can prescribe or refill if you run low during the trip. Specialty meds may not be available, so carry extra supplies for the trip duration if needed. Inform staff about daily medications during check-in.

How are infectious disease outbreaks handled on cruises? Modern cruise ships follow stringent sanitization and outbreak protocols. Isolation wards allow quarantining of passengers with infectious diseases. Disembarkation restrictions, contact tracing, sanitization and other countermeasures are deployed per CDC guidelines to contain outbreaks. Medical staff also monitor passengers to quickly identify potential cases.

What medical services are not available on cruise ships? Cruises cannot offer long-term hospitalization, dialysis, radiation therapy, chemotherapy and similar care onboard. Complex diagnoses like MRI, PET scan are also unavailable. Anyone needing such intensive, specialized treatment is evacuation from the ship for transport to the nearest hospital by tender or helicopter.

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“I knew I wanted to do something different, but I never expected just how much opportunity I could find working with Carnival. It’s more than an adventure – it’s the best career move I’ve ever made.”

"All of my past nursing experiences including working in intensive care and emergency settings were the foundation for success in this job. I love the variety of patient care opportunities that it affords, meanwhile traveling the world and interacting with fellow crew members from many countries"

“I never realized how broad my skillset was until I experienced working onboard cruise ships. Here I can go from a general practice consultation for someone with an UTI to intubating and sedating a patient, or administering thrombolysis to a patient, in just a single workday.”

“When I was working in the back of the ambulance, I gained the confidence and proficiency to care for my patients. Since working onboard, I developed my team dynamics skills, working along with the nurses and the physicians. They appreciate my skillset and I do value the multidisciplinary environment as a new way of improving my knowledge and skills.”

“Working onboard as a nurse is demanding at times. But the rewards of living on a cruise ship like this with a team like mine has been worth every moment.”

NEED A DOSE OF ADVENTURE? CLICK THROUGH THE RECRUITMENT PROCESS

Review our process and FAQs below to know what to expect at every step.

• Use our online application tool and set the pace of your application
• Review and acknowledge position requirements
• Complete your personal profile, educational background and work experience
• A Cover Letter and Resume
• Certified copies of your professional qualifications and certificates
• Proof of professional registration and license
• Details of specific clinical skills
• Professional and personal disclosures

• Allow us to share more detail through pre-recorded virtual introductions to our shore-side and shipboard teams
• Participate in an online screening interview, in your own time
• Listening, comprehension, English language skills for the position will be assessed
• Applicants that pass the screening interview, are invited to a Clinical assessment
• Successful applicants will receive a provisional offer, subject to review and validation of references, licenses etc.

Your current and recent employers (in supervising capacities) will be contacted for references.

Accepting an offer of employment, and all terms of and conditions, will allow us to start the onboarding process. As these next steps typically take place locally in your country of residence, your application may be handled by one of our local offices.

Our local administration offices will contact you with guidance on the next steps. These include, but are not limited to:

• Credentialing (review of your professional license to practice, educational background, certifications, employment history etc.)
• Pass a Regulatory Seafarer Medical Fitness examination
• Verifying specific Health Screening requirements for medical staff
• Obtain the necessary travel documents and visas (including C1D Visas for non-USA or Canadian applicants)
• Criminal background checks or Police Clearance
• Your start date availability
• Additional requirements may be imposed by certain countries, Flag states or regulatory bodies, dependent on your nationality and country of residence

• The onboarding process may take several months and once completed and you sign a legal contract, you will be ready to join your first ship
• Provisional assignment details may be shared during times of critical need to help you plan and prepare
• Always wait for instructions before engaging in any professional or personal arrangements in anticipation of joining a ship
• Depending on our operational staffing needs, you may need to wait several weeks or months for an assignment to be available

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• Section 8 - Road & Traffic Safety
• Section 8 - Motion Sickness

Cruise Ship Travel

Cdc yellow book 2024.

Author(s): Kara Tardivel, Stefanie White, Aimee Treffiletti, Amy Freeland

Cruise Ship Medical Capabilities

Illness & injury, infectious disease health risks, noninfectious health risks, travel preparation.

Cruise ship travel presents a unique combination of health concerns. Travelers from diverse regions brought together in the often crowded, semi-enclosed shipboard environment can facilitate the spread of person-to-person, foodborne, and waterborne diseases. Outbreaks on ships can be sustained over multiple voyages by crewmembers who remain onboard, or by persistent environmental contamination. Port visits can expose travelers to local diseases and, conversely, be a conduit for disease introduction into shoreside communities.

Some people (e.g., those with chronic health conditions or who are immunocompromised, older people, pregnant people) merit additional considerations when preparing for a cruise. Because travelers at sea might need to rely on a ship’s medical capabilities for an extended period, potential cruise passengers with preexisting medical needs should prepare accordingly by calling the cruise line’s customer service center to learn what type and level of health care services are (and are not) available on specific ships.

Medical facilities on cruise ships can vary widely depending on ship size, itinerary, cruise duration, and passenger demographics. Generally, shipboard medical centers can provide medical care comparable to that of ambulatory care centers; some are capable of providing hospitalization services or renal dialysis. Although no agency officially regulates medical practice aboard cruise ships, the American College of Emergency Physicians (ACEP) published consensus-based guidelines for cruise ship medical facilities in 1995, and updated the guidelines in 2013. ACEP guidelines , which most major cruise lines follow, state that cruise ship medical facilities should be able to provide quality medical care for passengers and crew; initiate appropriate stabilization, diagnostic, and therapeutic maneuvers for critically ill or medically unstable patients; and assist in the medical evacuation of patients in a timely fashion, when appropriate.

Cruise ship medical centers deal with a wide variety of illnesses and injuries; ≈10% of conditions reported to cruise ship medical centers are an emergency or require urgent care. Approximately 95% of illnesses are treated or managed onboard, with the remainder requiring evacuation and shoreside consultation for dental, medical, or surgical issues. Roughly half of all passengers seeking medical care are >65 years old.

Medical center visits are primarily the result of acute illness or injury. The most frequently reported diagnoses include respiratory illnesses (30%–40%); injuries from slips, trips, or falls (12%–18%); seasickness (10%); and gastrointestinal (GI) illness (10%); 80% of onboard deaths are due to cardiovascular events.

Infectious Disease Outbreaks

The most frequently reported cruise ship outbreaks involve GI infections (e.g., norovirus), respiratory infections (e.g., coronavirus disease 2019 [COVID-19], influenza), and other vaccine-preventable diseases (VPDs), such as varicella. Although cruise ships do not have public health authority, to reduce the risk of introducing communicable diseases, some ships conduct medical screening during embarkation to identify ill passengers, prevent them from boarding, or require isolation if permission to board is given.

Before travel, to help limit the introduction and spread of communicable diseases on cruise ships, prospective cruise ship travelers and their clinicians should consult the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) Travelers’ Health website for updates on outbreaks and destination-specific travel health notices. People who become ill with a communicable disease before a voyage should consult their health care provider and delay their travel until they are no longer contagious. When booking a cruise, travelers should check the trip cancellation policies and consider purchasing trip cancellation insurance (see Sec. 6, Ch. 1, Travel Insurance, Travel Health Insurance & Medical Evacuation Insurance ).

Travelers who become ill during a voyage should seek care in the ship’s medical center; the onboard staff will provide clinical management, facilitate infection-control measures, and take responsibility for reporting potential public health events. For information on how to report travelers who become ill with suspected communicable diseases after they return home from a cruise, see Sec. 8, Ch. 8, Airplanes & Cruise Ships: Illness & Death Reporting & Public Health Interventions .

Gastrointestinal Illnesses

During 2006–2019, rates of GI illness among passengers on voyages lasting 3–21 days fell from 32.5 to 16.9 cases per 100,000 travel days. Despite the decrease, outbreaks continue to occur. CDC assists the cruise ship industry to prevent and control the introduction, transmission, and spread of GI illnesses on cruise ships. See information on cruise ship GI illnesses and updates on GI illness outbreaks involving ships with US ports of call, specifically.

On cruise ships, >90% of GI illness outbreaks with a confirmed cause are due to norovirus. Characteristics of norovirus that facilitate outbreaks include a low infective dose, easy person-to-person transmissibility, prolonged viral shedding, absence of long-term immunity, and the ability of the virus to survive routine cleaning procedures (see Sec. 5, Part 2, Ch. 16, Norovirus ). For international cruise ships porting in the United States during 2006–2019, an average of 12 norovirus outbreaks occurred each year.

Other Sources of Gastrointestinal Illness

GI outbreaks on cruise ships also have been caused by contaminated food or water; most outbreaks were associated with  Campylobacter ,  Clostridium perfringens , or enterotoxigenic  Escherichia coli .

Protective Measures

Travelers can reduce the risk of acquiring a GI illness on cruise ships by frequently washing hands with soap and water, especially before eating and after using the restroom. Travelers should call the ship’s medical center promptly, even for mild symptoms of a GI illness, and strictly follow cruise ship guidance regarding isolation and other infection-control measures.

Respiratory Illnesses

Respiratory illnesses are the most common medical complaint on cruise ships. During the pretravel visit, evaluate whether vaccines or boosters (e.g., COVID-19, influenza) are needed and emphasize the importance of practicing good respiratory hygiene and cough etiquette while onboard. As with GI illnesses, cruise ship passengers should report respiratory illness to the medical center promptly and follow isolation recommendations as instructed.

Coronavirus Disease 2019

Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2), the virus that causes COVID-19, spreads more easily between people in close quarters, and multiple studies have concluded that transmission rates of SARS-CoV-2 among travelers on ships are much greater than in other settings. Cruise ship COVID-19 outbreaks can tax onboard medical and public health resources. Ship-to-shore medical evacuations to facilities capable of providing higher levels of medical care can present logistical challenges and pose additional risks to ill patients.

Cruise passengers and crewmembers who are not up to date with their COVID-19 vaccines are at increased risk for severe illness, hospitalization, medical evacuation, and death. Since cruising will always pose some risk of SARS-CoV-2 transmission, ensure that people planning cruise ship travel are up to date with their vaccinations, and assess their likelihood for developing severe COVID-19. For people at increased risk of severe COVID-19 regardless of their vaccination status (e.g., pregnant people, people who are immunocompromised), discuss the potential health hazards associated with cruise ship travel. CDC has developed recommendations and guidance designed to help cruise ship operators provide a safer and healthier environment for crewmembers, passengers, port personnel, and communities.

Historically, influenza has been among the most often reported VPDs occurring on cruise ships. Because passengers and crew originate from all regions of the globe, shipboard outbreaks of influenza A and B can occur year-round, with exposure to strains circulating in different parts of the world (see Sec. 5, Part 2, Ch. 12, Influenza ). Thus, anyone planning a cruise should receive the current seasonal influenza vaccine ≥2 weeks before travel if vaccine is available and no contraindications exist. For people at high risk for influenza complications, health care providers should discuss chemoprophylaxis and how and when to initiate antiviral treatment.

See additional guidance on the prevention and control of influenza on cruise ships .

Legionnaires’ Disease

Less common on cruise ships, Legionnaires’ disease is nevertheless a treatable infection that can result in severe pneumonia leading to death (see Sec. 5, Part 1, Ch. 9, Legionnaires’ Disease & Pontiac Fever ). Approximately 10%–15% of all Legionnaires’ disease cases reported to CDC occur in people who have traveled during the 10 days before symptom onset. Clusters of Legionnaires’ disease associated with hotel or cruise ship travel can be difficult to detect, because travelers often disperse from the source of infection before symptoms begin. Data reported to CDC during 2014–2015 included 25 confirmed cases of Legionnaires’ disease associated with cruise ship exposures.

In general, Legionnaires’ disease is contracted by inhaling warm, aerosolized water containing the bacteria,  Legionella . Transmission also can sometimes occur through aspiration of  Legionella -containing water. Typically, people do not spread  Legionella  to others; a single episode of possible person-to-person transmission of Legionnaires’ disease has been reported. Contaminated hot tubs are commonly implicated as a source of shipboard  Legionella  outbreaks, although potable water supply systems also have been culpable. Improvements in ship design and standardization of water disinfection have reduced the risk for  Legionella  growth and colonization.

Diagnosis & Reporting

People with suspected Legionnaires’ disease require prompt antibiotic treatment. When evaluating cruise travelers for Legionnaires’ disease, obtain a thorough travel history of all destinations during the 10 days before symptom onset to assist in identifying potential sources of exposure, and collect urine for  Legionella  antigen testing. Most cruise ships have the capacity to perform this test, which detects  L. pneumophila  serogroup 1, the most common serogroup.

Perform culture of lower respiratory secretions on selective media to detect non– L. pneumophila  serogroup 1 species and serogroups. Culture also is used for comparing clinical isolates to environmental isolates during an outbreak investigation. Notify CDC of any travel-associated Legionnaires’ disease cases by sending an email to [email protected]. Quickly report all cases of Legionnaires’ disease to public health officials, who can determine whether a case links to previously reported cases and work to stop potential clusters and new outbreaks.

Other Vaccine-Preventable Diseases

Although most cruise ship passengers come from countries with routine vaccination programs (e.g., Canada, the United States), many of the crew are from low- or middle-income countries where immunization rates can be low. Outbreaks of hepatitis A, measles, meningococcal disease, mumps, pertussis, rubella, and varicella have all been reported on cruise ships. The majority (82%) of these outbreaks occur among crewmembers; prior to the COVID-19 pandemic, varicella was the most frequently reported VPD. Other VPDs (e.g., pertussis) occur more often among passengers.

Each cruise line sets its own policies regarding vaccinations for its crew; some have limited or no requirements. Thus, all passengers should be up to date with routine vaccinations before travel, as well as any required or recommended vaccinations specific for their destinations. People of childbearing age should have documented immunity to measles, rubella, and varicella (either by vaccination or titer) before cruise ship travel.

Vectorborne Diseases

Some cruise ship ports of call include destinations where vectorborne diseases (e.g., dengue, Japanese encephalitis, malaria, yellow fever, Zika) are known to be endemic. In addition, new diseases can surface in unexpected locations; chikungunya was reported for the first time in the Caribbean in late 2013, with subsequent spread throughout the region and numerous other North, Central, and South American countries and territories. Zika was first reported in Brazil in 2015, and subsequently spread across the Caribbean and Latin America, sparking concern because of its association with microcephaly and other congenital abnormalities in the fetus. For disease-specific information, see the relevant chapters of Section 5.

For guidance on how to avoid bites from mosquitoes and other disease-transmitting arthropod vectors, both onboard and while on shore at ports of call, see Sec. 4, Ch. 6, Mosquitoes, Ticks & Other Arthropods . For specific details on yellow fever vaccination and malaria prevention, see Sec. 2, Ch. 5, Yellow Fever Vaccine & Malaria Prevention Information, by Country .

Stresses of cruise ship travel include varying weather and environmental conditions, and unaccustomed changes to diet and levels of physical activity. Despite modern stabilizer systems, seasickness is a common complaint, affecting up to 25% of travelers (see Sec. 8, Ch. 7, Motion Sickness ). Note that travel is an independent risk factor for behaviors such as alcohol and illicit drug use and misuse (see Sec. 3, Ch. 5, Substance Use & Substance Use Disorders ), and unsafe sex (see Sec. 9, Ch. 12, Sex & Travel ).

Cruise ship travelers have complex itineraries due to multiple short port visits. Although most port visits do not include overnight stays off ship, some trips offer travelers the opportunity to venture off the ship for ≥1 night. These excursions can complicate decisions about exposures and the need for specific antimicrobial prophylaxis, immunizations, and other prevention measures.  Boxes 8-04  and  8-05  summarize recommended cruise travel preparations and healthy behaviors during travel for health care providers and cruise ship travelers.

Box 8-04 Healthy cruise travel preparation: a checklist for health care providers

Risk assessment & risk communication.

☐ Discuss itinerary, including season, duration of travel, and activities at ports of call. ☐ Review the traveler’s medical and immunization history, allergies, and any additional health needs. ☐ Discuss relevant travel-specific health hazards and risk reduction. ☐ Provide travelers with documentation of their medical history, immunizations, and medications.

VACCINATION & RISK MANAGEMENT

☐ Provide routinely recommended (age-specific), required (yellow fever), and recommended vaccines. ☐ Discuss safe food and water precautions. ☐ Discuss insect bite prevention. ☐ Provide older travelers with a baseline electrocardiogram, especially those with coronary artery disease.

MEDICATIONS BASED ON RISK & NEED

☐ Consider prescribing malaria chemoprophylaxis if itinerary includes stops in malaria-endemic areas. ☐ Consider prescribing motion sickness medications for self-treatment.

Box 8-05 Healthy cruise travel preparation: a checklist for travelers

☐ Carry prescription drugs in original containers with a copy of the prescription and a physician’s letter. ☐ Check the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) Outbreak Updates for International Cruise Ships website for gastrointestinal outbreaks. ☐ Consider purchasing additional insurance coverage for overseas health care and medical evacuation. ☐ Consult medical and dental providers before cruise travel. ☐ Consult CDC Travelers’ Health website for travel health notices . ☐ Defer travel while acutely ill. ☐ Evaluate the type and length of the planned cruise in the context of personal health requirements. ☐ Notify the cruise line of additional health needs (e.g., dialysis, supplemental oxygen, wheelchair). ☐ Pack Environmental Protection Agency (EPA)–registered insect repellent; consider treating clothes and gear with permethrin. ☐ Pack sunscreen.

DURING TRAVEL

☐ Avoid contact with people who are ill. ☐ Follow safe food and water precautions when eating off ship at ports of call. ☐ Maintain good fluid intake and avoid excessive alcohol consumption. ☐ Practice safe sex. ☐ Report all illnesses to ship’s medical center and follow their recommendations. ☐ Use insect bite precautions during port visits, especially in vectorborne disease–endemic areas or areas experiencing outbreaks of vectorborne diseases (e.g., Zika, yellow fever) ☐ Use sun protection. ☐ Wash hands frequently with soap and water; if soap and water are not available, use ≥60% alcohol–based hand sanitizer.

POST TRAVEL

☐ See CDC’s latest post-cruise health guidance regarding coronavirus disease 2019.

Travelers with Additional Considerations

Travelers with chronic illnesses and travelers with disabilities who have additional needs (e.g., dialysis, supplemental oxygen, wheelchairs) should inform their cruise line before traveling. Highly allergic travelers and travelers with underlying medical conditions should carry a file that contains essential, pertinent health information (e.g., allergies, blood type, chest radiograph [if abnormal], chronic conditions, electrocardiogram, medication list, primary and/or specialty care provider contact information). Travelers also should bring any medications recommended by their health care provider (e.g., an epinephrine auto-injector) to help facilitate care during a medical emergency. For detailed information on preparing travelers who have additional considerations for international travel, including severe allergies, chronic illness, disabilities, or immune compromise, see Section 3.

Pregnant Travelers

Most cruise lines have policies that do not permit people to board after their 24th week of pregnancy. Contact cruise lines directly for specific guidance before booking. For additional information on preparing pregnant people for international travel, see Sec. 7, Ch. 1, Pregnant Travelers .

Insurance Coverage

All prospective cruise travelers should verify coverage with their health insurance carriers and, if not included, consider purchasing additional insurance to cover medical evacuation and health services received onboard cruise ships and in foreign countries (see Sec. 6, Ch. 1, Travel Insurance, Travel Health Insurance & Medical Evacuation Insurance ).

The following authors contributed to the previous version of this chapter: Kara Tardivel, Stefanie B. White, Krista Kornylo Duong

Bibliography

Hill CD. Cruise ship travel. In: Keystone JS, Kozarsky PE, Connor BA, Nothdurft HD, Mendelson M, editors. Travel medicine, 4th edition. Philadelphia: Saunders Elsevier; 2019. pp. 377–82. 

Jenkins KA, Vaughan GHJ, Rodriguez LO, Freeland AL. Acute gastroenteritis on cruise ships—United States, 2006–2019. MMWR Morb Mortal Wkly Rep. 2021;70(6):1–19. 

Kordsmeyer A-C, Mojtahedzadeh N, Heidrich J, Militzer K, von Münster T, Belz L, et al. Systematic review on outbreaks of SARS-CoV-2 on cruise, navy and cargo ships. Int J Environ Res Public Health. 2021;18(10):5195. 

Millman AJ, Kornylo Duong K, Lafond K, Green NM, Lippold SA, Jhung MA. Influenza outbreaks among passengers and crew on two cruise ships: a recent account of preparedness and response to an ever-present challenge. J Travel Med. 2015;22(5):306–11. 

Mouchtouri VA, Lewis HC, Hadjichristodoulou C. A systematic review for vaccine-preventable diseases on ships: evidence for cross-border transmission and for pre-employment immunization need. Int J Environ Res Public Health. 2019;16(15):2713. 

Payne DC, Smith-Jeffcoat SE, Nowak G, Chuwkwuma U, Geibe JR, Hawkins RJ, et al. SARS-CoV-2 infections and serologic responses from a Sample of U.S. Navy service members—USS Theodore Roosevelt, April 2020. MMWR Morb Mortal Wkly Rep 2020;69(23):714–21. 

Peake DE, Gray CL, Ludwig MR, Hill CD. Descriptive epidemiology of injury and illness among cruise ship passengers. Ann Emerg Med. 1999;33(1):67–72. 

Rice ME, Bannerman M, Marin M, Lopez AS, Lewis MM, Stamatakis CE, et al. Maritime varicella illness and death reporting, U.S., 2010–2015. Travel Med Infect Dis. 2018;23:27–33. 

Rocklöv J, Sjödin H, Wilder-Smith A. COVID-19 outbreak on the Diamond Princess cruise ship: estimating the epidemic potential and effectiveness of public health countermeasures. J Travel Med. 2020;27(3):taaa030. 

Stamatakis CE, Rice ME, Washburn FM, Krohn KJ, Bannerman M, et al. Maritime illness and death reporting and public health response, United States, 2010–2014. J Travel Med Inf Dis. 2017;19:16–21.

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• Norwegian Cruise Line

Type of care and cost offered by the onboard Medical Center.

By mozfoz , August 5, 2015 in Norwegian Cruise Line

Recommended Posts

While the Medical Center on a ship is not a hospital, what type of issues are the Center capable of treating while at sea. Also, what are the experiences and associated cost you may have occurred with the medical care provided.

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At the end of our TA on Epic in April Mr S experienced an exacerbation of his COPD. The medical center on Epic was impressive and the care was efficient and appropriate. I really liked the doc, and I am hard to impress in that regard. The cost was about $100 including a nebulizer treatment, and filled prescriptions for steroids and antibiotics. I thought that was very reasonable.

We were told that all across the Atlantic we were never very far from US Armed Forces ships that had state of the art hospitals on board. That was reassuring also.

newmexicoNita

We have visited the med center about 4 times, different ships lines: the facilities are not great but they do have x ray machines and a few other needed equiptment. The meds are limited. If I remember right, the cost is about $75 for an office call plus meds; maybe it was a little more. The last time I was there I had hurt my knee and there wasn't much they could do. When I returned home my insurance paid all but $15 of the bill. I was happy with the service, I didn't expect much more, but if there is a serious problem a person has to be air lifted off the plane or if docked, taken the nearest hospital. i have always found the doctors and nurses very kind and friendly except for the doctor on Princess. I don't think he cared for his job.

I think of it a bit like a small town urgent care.

X rays...yes

Medication for normal issues...yes

surgery...no

Stitches ...yes

I know they also have boots for hurt ankles or feet not sure about casting my guess is basic casting material.

We found the Dr. on Epic to be very nice and personable. Our daughter has very sensitive skin and in kids club they drew this beautiful seahorse that wrapped around her face. The black face paint gave her a chemical burn on her face. We had everything to treat her but her face looked like a red version of a mike Tyson tattoo. The staff kept trying to encourage us to see the ship Doctor but we didn't go so they must have called him to come see her.

He sat with us and spoke to us about her face when we explained that we know what was going on and our treatment plan for her and the Dh is also a Dr and if we see any sighs of infection we would be down immediately. I was impressed with his bedside manner.

My 3 year old fell and hit her head on the small palm tree slide on breakaway. She was unable to move all four extremities and lost consciousness. I'm an ER nurse and her dad an EMT. We were highly impressed with the care received onboard. The doctor was amazing, he is a family physician in Wisconsin when not on the cruise ships. Very family centered care, her dad and I with the doctor and a ships officer made the decision on if she was stable enough to remain onboard to port or if she would be evacuated by the coast guard. The doctor from the ship remained in contact the entire week we were in the hospital. They only had a portable x Ray capability and the decision was jointly made to keep her immobilized on the backboard and collar until a better quality imaging could be done. We learned at the hospital in cocoa beach she had a sub rural hematoma and were then transferred to a children's hospital in orlando. We never saw a bill from the cruise ship.

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Don't go there for sea sickness. They will confine you to your room for 24 hours.

fifescotland

Unlucky break!

On the Spirit earlier this year I went down for some sea sickness pills and they gave me some without charge.

not unless you show signs of Noro. I know at lot of people who have visited and not been confined. that is rediculous.

I forgot about hubby tripping over a lounge when we were on the Dawn. The medical center was absolutely unbelievably good with him. They actually had 2 doctors at the time. I am sure the thought of a law suit might have had something to do with how he was treated, but regardless he would not have gotten better care at our local hospital I don't think.

They have (or at least had) ear plugs, sea sickness pills and non asprin pills free at the front desk.

I have Seizures and travel alone. My seizures are not epileptic and I am fine once they pass. IF I have a seizure is public areas, a 911 call goes out against my will. Once I was asked to go to the medical center to be checked out. Shortly after arriving, I was able to talk and the Dr. Checked me out and gave me a clean bill of health. I did not get a bill either, because he ASKED me to go to medical center and I did not want to. The Staff was very nice :)

My mom got sick on Getaway in May and total charge was $361.00

Budget Queen

I was on the Carnival Legend- there were 2 MD's on board. This involved a respiratory failure, that resulted in venting. One MD was certain, it was related to a MI, which I disputed. Not receptive to alternatives. They did "fumble" some with the care, hopefully- they probably don't encounter this level of care often. The did a lot of labwork, which did not indicate any MI even with the repeats. The cpt did speed up the ship, and an ambulance was waiting with us able to get off the ship a little after 5am. This involved about 10 hours of service $3500

I have found services similar with several cruise lines.

crayola1932

I'm not sure about that anymore. On the Jewel (September 2014) I needed some simple aspirin (and stupidly hadn't brought any). Because of various health issues, I couldn't use any of the iprofen, acetominophen, or other aspirin substitutes for sale in the shop, so I went down to the clinic to see if I could get some plain aspirin from there. They told me that I couldn't get it unless I saw the doctor which would cost $110 (or somesuch). Fortunately, a man in the waiting area overheard, and gave me some of his aspirin.

I can understand about the clinic--just wish the shop had stocked plain aspirin.

They are designed for typical injury (sprains, cuts, bruises, etc...) and illness (like stomach aches, or colds)...they are not equipped for major or chronic issues.. If you have something major, like a heart attack, they will take you off the ship to the nearest hospital...and it might not be the "best" hospital.

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Health Center

Medical emergencies.

For medical emergencies, call 7-3000 from any ship phone.

If you forget your EpiPen and suffer from life-threatening food allergies, EpiPens are available on a case-by-case basis at the ship's Health Center and at First Aid on Disney's Castaway Cay. If, in the event of an emergency, you do not have an EpiPen, notify the nearest Crew Member, or dial 7-3000 from any ship phone.

In the event of a medical emergency, a doctor and nurse are on call 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Occasionally, it may be necessary for a patient to disembark the ship for transport to a nearby medical facility. Please note that medical personnel are employed by a company independent of Disney Cruise Line, and standard prevailing fees will be charged for all services. Fees incurred at the Health Center will appear on your stateroom account. Additionally, because onboard medical services are considered “care outside the United States,” you will be responsible for paying any such charges prior to leaving the ship. The Health Center will gladly provide you with the paperwork you’ll need to process any claim through your health insurance or travel insurance supplier.

For minor first aid, the Health Center stocks over-the-counter medications, bandages and other remedies for quick relief. First aid and over-the-counter drugs are also available at the Guest Services Desk on Deck 3, Midship and at select onboard shops.

Guests who need to refrigerate medication may do so in their provided stateroom refrigerator.

Sharps Container

A small sharps container for the disposal of needles, syringes and lancets is located in each stateroom bathroom. If you need a sharps container in your stateroom and do not see one, please tell the Crew Member who attends to your stateroom and a container will be provided. Sharps containers are also located in public restrooms.

Location, Hours and Phone Number

Hours are 9:30 AM - 11:00 AM and 4:30 PM - 7:00 PM

For non-emergencies, call 7-1923 from any ship phone.

FindHealth Center

 disney magic.

Health Center Deck 1, Forward

 Disney Wonder

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Icon of the Seas Medical Facility

Royal caribbean.

Below you will find the Medical Facility on the Icon of the Seas .

Medical Facility

Hopefully you don't visit.

The ship has a minimum of one fully licensed doctor and two licensed nurses on board. The medical staff is available to cruise passengers 24 hours a day and seven days per week. The medical facility is equipped to meet the need of any cruise guest. It's prepared to do so at a level beyond what is required by the American College of Emerfency Physicians Cruise Ship & Maritime Medicine Section. Guests can have full confidence that the ship is equipped with everything necessary. On board medical equipment includes cardiac monitors, defibrillators, ventilators, x-ray machines, lab equipment and surgical supplies.

Which deck has the Medical Facility on the Icon of the Seas?

You’ll find the Medical Facility on the ship’s Deck 3 .

Is the Medical Facility free with my cruise purchase?

No, this other requires an additional fee and is not included in your cruise purchase. See below for pricing details and information on “how to book” this restaurant.

Which Royal Caribbean Cruise Line Ships offer the Medical Facility?

You can find the Medical Facility on the following Royal Caribbean Cruise Line Ships.

Brilliance Of The Seas Icon Of The Seas Jewel Of The Seas Radiance Of The Seas Serenade Of The Seas Spectrum Of The Seas

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Nearly 70 Celebrity Cruises guests sick in norovirus outbreak

• Nearly 70 passengers and five crew members got sick in a norovirus outbreak on a Celebrity Cruises ship.
• The ship is currently sailing week-long Alaska voyages between Vancouver and Seward.
• The illness is frequently associated with cruise ships, but those outbreaks account for just 1% of all outbreaks reported, according to the CDC.

Nearly 70 Celebrity Cruises passengers got sick in a norovirus outbreak during a recent cruise.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention said 68 of Celebrity Summit’s 2,264 guests reported being ill during a cruise that ended on Friday, along with five crew members. Their main symptoms were diarrhea and vomiting.

The ship is currently sailing week-long Alaska voyages between Vancouver and Seward, according to CruiseMapper . In response to the outbreak, the cruise line isolated sick guests and crew and collected samples for testing, among other steps, the health agency said. 

There were an isolated number of cases on board and the impacted guests are no longer on the ship, according to Nathaniel Derrenbacher, a spokesperson for Celebrity’s parent company Royal Caribbean Group. Summit was also sanitized.

The news follows another norovirus outbreak on Celebrity Constellation in January that left nearly 100 guests sick. The CDC has logged seven outbreaks of gastrointestinal illness on cruises that met its threshold for public notification so far this year. Norovirus was listed as the causative agent in all but one.

Cruise ship medical facilities: What happens if you get sick or injured (or bitten by a monkey)

The illness is frequently associated with cruise ships, but those outbreaks account for just 1% of all outbreaks reported, according to the CDC. Dr. Sarah E. Hochman, a hospital epidemiologist and the section chief of infectious diseases at NYU Langone Health’s Tisch Hospital, told USA TODAY in April that those happen in communities on land, too.

“There's not something special or unique about cruise ships,” she said at the time. “It's really any type of congregate setting, but it's also happening out in the community on a much smaller scale among households and household contacts. It just doesn't come to the attention of public health as much as it does for larger congregate settings.”

Nathan Diller is a consumer travel reporter USA TODAY based in Nashville. You can reach him at [email protected].

The Key Points at the top of this article were created with the assistance of Artificial Intelligence (AI) and reviewed by a journalist before publication. No other parts of the article were generated using AI. Learn more .

Family demanding justice after woman found dead weeks after graduating medical school

ATLANTA, Ga. ( WANF /Gray News) - A family in Georgia is demanding justice after a 28-year-old woman was found dead weeks after graduating from medical school.

Dr. Diamond Clarke recently graduated from Morehouse School of Medicine.

She just received her title as “doctor” and was set to begin her residency in South Georgia, however, things took a tragic turn.

Police said Clarke was last seen at her home on May 28.

According to police records, her body was discovered with a gunshot wound to her head, WANF reported.

Investigators later recovered her phone in the driveway of her home and her abandoned car not too far away from where she was discovered.

Her family believes foul play was involved.

Darren Anglin, one of Clarke’s long-time friends, said the circumstances surrounding her death don’t add up.

He said that they received a crash alert from her phone between 5 and 5:30 pm., which prompted concerns.

“If I’m not mistaken, there were five rounds found on the scene and Diamond suffered a gunshot wound to the head. We want to better understand who the owner of the gun may be. How the gun was discharged,” Anglin said.

Police records state Clarke’s boyfriend was the last to see her. In a police statement, he said the two argued at her home and Clarke left and never returned.

Anglin said they’re partnering with police to ensure a thorough investigation.

Dekalb County Police said Clarke’s death appears to be a suicide. However, her family said the investigation is ongoing to rule out foul play.

A medical examiner’s office will do an autopsy to determine her cause of death.

A tribute to the Clarke was given at a Megan Thee Stallion concert.

Copyright 2024 WANF via Gray Media Group, Inc. All rights reserved.

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