Health Tip: Staying Well Aboard Ship

(HealthDayNews) -- Millions of Americans enjoy cruises every year. But traveling with lots of people in confined spaces can expose you to contaminated food, water or diseases.

To stay healthy while cruising, follow these tips, courtesy of the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention:

• Wash your hands before and after eating, smoking, touching your face, going to the bathroom or when your hands are dirty.
• Leave the area if you see someone get sick, and be sure to tell the ship's staff.
• Get plenty of rest and drink lots of water. Resting helps rebuild your immune system, and drinking water helps prevents dehydration.
• Be considerate of other people. If you become ill before a cruise, call the cruise line to see if you can reschedule.

-- Anne Thompson