Summary: John Shufeldt, MD, JD, MBA is a practicing Emergency Physician in Phoenix, AZ. But, he has done much more than just practice medicine. He has started successful businesses, graduated law school and obtained an MBA all while continuing to practice medicine. What makes him successful? According to Dr. Shufeldt, he isn't successful. But, I disagree. He has accomplished more than the average physician, attorney or business man has accomplished and he strives to do more. Dr. Shufeldt sat down with me in his office to discuss his views on medicine and the things he has accomplished, including his new book "Ingredients of Outliers: A Recipe for Personal Achievement". Here are the places you can find Dr. Shufeldt: Twitter - @JohnShufeldt Facebook Book: Ingredients of Outliers (find it on Amazon) MeMD CRUISE SHIP ILLNESS The Norovirus is suspected of infecting another cruise ship that pulled into port today in New Jersey. Almost 700 of the 4200 people on board fell ill during the 10 day cruise. But, this is not a new phenomenon. Since 2010, 41 cruise ships have had confirmed cases of Norovirus, according to the CDC. So, why is this virus ravaging cruise ships? Well, the answer is that there is almost a perfect storm of events that occur. First, the virus spreads easily between people that are in close contact. Obviously, on a cruise you are in contact with the person or people you are traveling with on the ship. But, you are also in close contact with the employees and other travelers. Second, the virus is easily spread by contaminated food and water. Think of a buffet. Food is there for hours. Employees and customers are reaching in the food constantly which leads to a perfect environment to spread the virus. Once you are infected the symptoms will not occur for 12-48 hours. During that time you can spread the infection by not washing your hands thoroughly and touching door handles, railings, faucets, etc. You have unknowingly left a trail of virus around the ship for others to acquire. Before you know it a large number of the people on board are sick and their vacations ruined. Norovirus is generally not a deadly illness. Like most illnesses it has the worst outcomes in the young (infants) and the elderly. There are upwards of 800 deaths annually from Norovirus, but most people will get no symptoms or have vomiting, diarrhea and abdominal cramping. Fever and bodyaches are also common. Symptoms last 1-3 days and dehydration is the biggest concern. Norovirus is the most common cause of foodborne illnesses every year and occurs more commonly on land than on a cruise ship. So, if you go on a cruise make sure to practice good sanitation and wash your hands constantly. Here are some links for additional information: CDC - Norovirus CDC - Cruise Ship Traveler info
