CDC layoffs could impact cruise ship health inspections
Mass layoffs at the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention could upend cruise ship inspections and illness tracking.
Several divisions received ‘reduction in force’ notices including the unit that oversees the cruise industry Vessel Sanitation Program.
The VSP is responsible for the twice-yearly inspections of cruise ships as well as tracking all shipboard illness outbreaks.
The CDC says the program will continue although sources at the health agency suggest there is not sufficient staff numbers able to maintain the current level of inspections.
The VSP could be integrated into another division of the CDC.
Depending on the size of the cruise ship, up to four staffers are required to complete a full inspection.
Ships are checked for safe use of water and HVAC systems, food service and kitchens, pools and hot tubs, and child activity centers.
Ships are rated on a 100-point system and corrective actions are imposed for any deficiencies.
CDC staff also track ongoing illness outbreaks.
So far in 2025, there have been 12 outbreaks with most found to be cases of norovirus. It has affected more than 1,400 guests and crew this year.
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Editor for TravelMole North America and Asia pacific regions. Ray is a highly experienced (15+ years) skilled journalist and editor predominantly in travel, hospitality and lifestyle working with a huge number of major market-leading brands. He has also cover in-depth news, interviews and features in general business, finance, tech and geopolitical issues for a select few major news outlets and publishers.
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