Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA) has announced it is adopting additional enhanced screening measures in response to the coronavirus
This follows a meeting between US Vice President Mike Pence and CLIA in Fort Lauderdale, Florida to discuss the cruise industry and the coronavirus outbreak.
The focus on the coronavirus and the cruise industry has ramped up after outbreaks of the illness on cruise ships. After guests tested positive for Covid-19 on Princess Cruise’s vessel Grand Princess, embarkation was expected to begin in the Port of Oakland yesterday (9 March).
Princess Cruises said it was expected to be a multiple day process. The US Coast Guard will send California Health and Human Services teams to assist with medical triage, screening and interviews, and prioritising those who require the most acute care. To avoid delays, testing will be conducted when guests arrive at their onward destination.
In a statement dated 6 March, Princess Cruises said that among 45 samples tested in a first phase of health screenings, 21 people tested positive for Covid-19 which includes two guests and 19 crew.
Meanwhile, CLIA’s enhanced screening measures mean that its members are to:
The industry association said “With strict measures in place, as guided by national and international health authorities, CLIA and its member lines, in concert with pronouncements from the World Health Organization, do not believe restrictions on the movement of ships are justified.”
CLIA president and chief executive Kelly Craighead said “We remain in close contact with local governments around the world, and while we regret that these changes will result in the denial of boarding for some of our guests, travellers should know that their health and safety is the absolute priority for the industry.”
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