CDC May Halt Inspections of Cruise Ships: What It Means for the Industry

The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) may cease to conduct health inspections on cruise ships due to resource constraints within its Vessel Sanitation Program (VSP). Recent layoffs within the agency’s Division of Environmental Health Science and Practice, which manages the VSP, have been reported by multiple sources.

The VSP is responsible for maintaining public health standards on cruise ships, providing scores based on operational health practices across eight key areas. It also collects data on onboard illnesses and addresses outbreaks. However, the recent staff reductions have compromised the program’s ability to perform regular inspections at U.S. ports.

The CDC did not respond to requests for additional comments regarding this matter.

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