CDC’s CSO to be voluntary

THE Centers for Disease Control & Prevention (CDC) has extended its Framework for Conditional Sailing Order (CSO) until 15 Jan, with minor modifications.

After the end of the Temporary Extension & Modification of the CSO, the CDC intends to transition it to a voluntary program, in coordination with cruise ship operators and other stakeholders, to assist the industry to detect, mitigate, and control the spread of COVID-19 on board cruise ships.

Vessels that have been operating restricted passenger voyages with a 95% vaccinated crew and 95% vaccinated passengers may transition to voyages with less than 95% vaccinated passengers by conducting modified simulated voyages procedures, in lieu of a full simulated voyage.

Similarly, cruise ships that have been conducting passenger operations in jurisdictions outside the United States, and intend to operate in American waters with less than 95% vaccinated passengers, may apply for a COVID-19 Conditional Sailing Certificate after conducting modified simulated voyage procedures, instead of a full simulated voyage.

CDC Director Rochelle Walensky signed the Temporary Extension & Modification of the CSO overnight, which will be effective upon expiration of the current Order, on 01 Nov.

Changes incorporated were based on discussions and feedback from cruise lines.

The Temporary Extension & Modification of the CSO shall remain in effect until 15 Jan, unless the Secretary of Health & Human Services’ declaration COVID-19 no longer constitutes a public health emergency, or Walensky rescinds or modifies the order.

Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA) has said the updated CSO underscores the importance of ongoing dialogue and collaboration between the federal government of the United States and the industry, as the Order enters its final phase.

“The changes to the Framework for Conditional Sailing Order, announced today, show that the Biden Administration and the Centers for Disease Control & Prevention recognise the cruise industry’s successful resumption of operations,” it said.

“We look forward to demonstrating the industry’s continued leadership in this final phase of the CSO, and to carrying out a smooth transition when the Order comes to an end.”

CLIA noted the cruise industry’s protocols are unique in their approach to monitoring COVID-19, meaning its members are sailing with some of the highest levels of COVID-19 mitigation of any industry.