Input requested re: trip to Italy and cruise

Posted by pjas972j @pjas972j, May 20 4:09pm

I'm 72 with bronchiectasis for over 15 years, colonized with pseudomonas. I've thankfully been able to keep infections at bay for the past three years with nebulized antibiotics and following NJH protocols. Next week, we are traveling to Italy to celebrate our 50th anniversary. Four of the nights we will be staying in an Airbnb that has a saltwater pool. My son's family (3 teenagers) will be using the pool a lot. After that we will be going on a nine-night Mediterranean cruise. At one port, my son has rented a boat.

Two questions: One, would you be comfortable sitting by the outside pool, dangling your feet into the water while the teens splash around or would you sit farther away from the pool? Two, I am not taking a bathing suit because I do not plan on swimming in the sea. I've read Dr. Falkinham's opinion that saltwater pools are safer than fresh water and that oceans don't have the NTM risk as lakes. Am I being too conservative to not take a swimsuit? I'd like to create some great family memories, I just don't want to bring back a lung infection when I return home.

I realize that I am in an incredible position to have this opportunity. It's once in a lifetime trip. I want to be wise but not fearful. Thanks for your input!

Interested in more discussions like this? Go to the MAC & Bronchiectasis Support Group.

20mg first 5 days, then 15mg, 10mg, 5mg for 5 days each for 20 days total. Relief from cough and energy too. Cough returned quickly afterward.

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My doctor gives me prescriptions to fill before traveling. Usually a Z pack (azithromycin) and prednisone just in case. I also take along Claritin and Mucinex. You and your doctor know what works for you and you should always travel with your medications. Enjoy your vacation!

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Profile picture for Sue, Volunteer Mentor @sueinmn

@pjas972j Take your swimsuit and enjoy your trip. please! Outdoor saltwater pools are low risk, mainly because any NTM or other pathogens are vastly diluted by the open air and the breeze. As Dr Falkinham has said repeatedly, NTM doesn't grow in the ocean. We regularly swim in the outdoor salt water community pool at our winter home, and in the Gulf of Mexico, and have never had any issue.
I would be more concerned and careful about exposure to random respiratory infections on planes and closed public transport. We traveled for 3 weeks in Slovenia and Italy last year, wearing masks to avoid infection. We thought we were "safe enough" but my husband acquired Covid from a passenger on our small-group tour bus. She knew she was sick, but came on the excursions anyway.

I would be inclined to be very careful to drink spring water oruse a LifeStraw for water on the cruise.

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@sueinmn
Hi Sue, this caught my eye as I am taking a cruise. Is there a particular life straw you recommend? So many to choose from, not sure of any differences?
Thanks!

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Profile picture for glendamoseley1 @glendamoseley1

@sueinmn
Hi Sue, this caught my eye as I am taking a cruise. Is there a particular life straw you recommend? So many to choose from, not sure of any differences?
Thanks!

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@glendamoseley1 Please start a discussion in the group asking this question - I currently use a 0.2 micron filtered water in my home and camper, and bottled spring water on the road. So I do not know the current models and their feartures.

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I don't disagree with any comments on lozenges, but I have found Ricola (the regular kind) really helps sooth my throat. The claim on the label is that there are various herbs in it. Because I cough with NTM and from my nebulizer and the arikayce /amikacin, I've really appreciated this particular brand. It's soothing, but also seems to suppresss my cough.

Mokie

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