Norovirus is transmitted from fecally contaminated food. It speads easily among people in crowded conditions. It is airborne and contaminates 'fomite.'
There is a new word for you. It is a medical term. Formite is an object (as a dish or an article of clothing or a counter top or table top or table cloth or sink) that may be contaminated with infectious organisms and serve in their transmission contained.
The industry can do better. The hygiene of staff and passengers need to be encouraged. Hand cleaners should be easily visible at convenient locations throughout the ship and its operations for all people.
But worried most about his episode was the ship itself. It was reported by passengers they witnessed listing. It would list to the left, then to the right. The engine was vital to it's stability in the ocean waters. I realize this ship was disabled following a severe storm, but, that makes the concern greater.
The USA Coast Guard Cutter was at the side of the ship to reassure passengers, but, in reality what were they suppose to do if the ship lost it's ballast in the ocean? The listing of the ship is a major worry. These ships are top heavy. Their displacement is not that deep compared to its entire mass. The cruise ships rely on their engine to maintain an upright status.
The need for engine redundancy is obvious, however, there is no reassurance even two engines will not fail given the fact they may not be well maintained and/or serviced while at sea. Diesels are great engines, but, they are worry, too.
They are reliable as long as there is sufficient care of their operations.
#1. A clean intake system and air filter.
#2. Regular oil changes.
#3. Keeping a log of oil consumption.
#4. Watching for excess smoke in the exhaust.
There also has to be more than adequate electrical system that is basically fool proof. Submarines have exceptional electrical systems for their crews' safety. It makes little sense for anything less in cruise ships.
Thousands of people. If one actually sunk or a fire resulted in severe damage to the ship's structural integrity, it would be a disaster. That would end the confidence the public has to 'Cruise.' Even with all the perks that comes with a disappointed and compromised passenger, the public would be finished with it.
So, the industry has to do better.
The Coast Guard Cutter was where it needed to be, but, that also ties up a vital component to USA coastal security. There are drug cartels loving these breakdowns, too. We have half-subs and submarines to worry about coming from drug cartels. That is important, too.
Carnival Triumph cruise passengers getting free booze as crippled, stranded 'shantytown' ship is pulled toward Mobile, Ala. (click here)
BY DAVID BOROFF / NEW YORK DAILY NEWS
Published Wednesday, February 13, 2013
As a crippled Carnival Cruise ship limps toward land in the U.S., crew members are trying to deal with the terrible conditions by handing out free booze, a relative of one of the stranded passengers said...
