CDC issues new Operations Manual for COVID-19 Program

The document is intended to assist foreign-flagged cruise ship operators that have chosen to opt into CDC’s COVID-19 Program for Cruise Ships in ensuring health and safety by minimising the risk of spreading COVID-19. CDC’s oversight and inspection of cruise ships choosing to opt into the Program will be based on this Operations Manual.

The February 17 changes provide guidance for cruise ship operators on how to calculate the dates of eligibility for COVID-19 vaccine booster doses and “up to date” status. Furthermore, the document clarifies guidance for passengers with documentation of recovery from COVID-19.

Additionally, guidance for pre-embarkation screening of passengers was updated and flexibility for pre-embarkation screening testing for travellers who are up to date with their COVID-19 vaccines was provided, while also clarifying masking guidance for Highly Vaccinated ships.

RELEVANT DOCUMENT (AVAILABLE ONLY TO SUBSCRIBERS):

Operations Manual for CDC’s COVID-19 Program for Cruise Ships Operating in U.S. Waters