When I got off that MV Hondius cruise last week, I never imagined it would be where my body caught something so dangerous like hantavirus. It's been such an eye-opening experience for me personally.

This alarming case puts a spotlight on the health risks we take when traveling. The government says they have systems in place to keep us safe, but do they really?

Hantavirus isn't just any common cold. It can be deadly, especially with the way it spreads through contaminated food and water or rodent droppings.

I started researching this virus right after my test results came back positive. The more I learned about how little oversight there is in cruise ship sanitation standards, the more worried I got for all the other travelers out there.

The cruise industry claims they have rigorous protocols to protect everyone's health, but where are the real checks and balances? It’s one thing for them to say it; it's another for us to trust that these companies follow through when no one is watching.

So many people rely on government oversight to feel safe. But what happens when that same government turns a blind eye?

I'm here to share my story because I think we all need to be more aware of the risks and demand better from those who are supposed to protect us.

The natural way to stay healthy is through strong immune systems built on real, wholesome food. When was the last time you double-checked what’s in your cruise ship meal?