CDC issues ‘highest level’ warning for cruise travel

The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention raises its cruise-ship coronavirus risk assessment to the highest level possible, after it had lifted the monthslong ban on the industry.

The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention upgraded the cruise ship travel risk to a level 4, the federal agency’s highest risk level possible for contracting COVID-19.

Amid reports of widespread outbreaks in cruises earlier this year, CDC recommends that travelers avoid cruise ships, including river cruises, around the world, given the “very high” risk of becoming infected or spreading the novel coronavirus.

If passengers decide to go on cruises, they should get tested three to five days after the trip. Even if they test negative after a trip, cruise ship travelers should stay home for seven days after the trip.

The advisory comes nearly a