More than 360 cases of influenza-like illnesses have been detected in cruise ship passengers arriving in Sydney this year.
The Public Health Unit is reminding people to have a flu vaccination at least two weeks before going on a cruise.
Many of the illnesses were caused by influenza A.
Public Health Unit director Mark Ferson said infectious diseases can spread easily once introduced onto the ship due to the large number of passengers in close quarters.
This season’s publicly-funded influenza vaccine will be available from GPs at the beginning of April.
Vaccination is especially important for pregnant women, the elderly and anyone at increased risk of pneumonia or other serious complications, Professor Ferson said.
Cruise ships have strong protocols for assessing, treating and isolating passengers and crew with suspected influenza.
Anyone who feels sick on a cruise should seek onboard medical advice immediately.
This season’s influenza vaccine is available privately.
