CLIA has implemented a series of enhanced screening measures in response to the coronavirus (COVID-19) outbreak.

The association first revealed a series of preventative measures at the end of January. The updated policies, effective immediately and for all CLIA member cruise lines, are as follows:

• Deny boarding to all persons who have travelled from, visited or transited via airports in South Korea, Iran, China, including Hong Kong and Macau, and any municipality in Italy subject to lockdown (quarantine) measures by the Italian government, as designated by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, within 14 days prior to embarkation
• Conduct illness screening for all persons who have travelled from, visited or transited via airports in any destinations listed on the US CDC Coronavirus Disease 2019 Information for Travel page within 14 days before embarkation. Illness screening includes symptom history checks for fever, cough and difficulty breathing in the 14 days before embarkation and taking of temperature
• Deny boarding to all persons who, within 14 days prior to embarkation, have had contact with, or helped care for, anyone suspected or diagnosed as having COVID-19, or who are currently subject to health monitoring for possible exposure to COVID-19
• Conduct pre-boarding screening necessary to effectuate these prevention measures. Enhanced screening and initial medical support are to be provided, as needed, to any persons exhibiting symptoms of suspected COVID-19

The association said that it and its member lines will continue to monitor the situation and will modify policies if necessary.

In a statement it added: “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 CEO Kelly Craighead said: “The adoption of these measures further demonstrates the cruise industry’s unique ability to respond quickly as circumstances evolve.

“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.”

In addition, Royal Caribbean chairman and CEO Richard Fain has urged travel agents not to panic. Speaking in a video message, he said: “This is a tough time – a really tough time – and all of us know it because all of us are going through it together.

“It’s really easy to think that the world is coming to an end. Well I have a spoiler alert – it’s not. As with most storms, it gets worse before it gets better, but it’s hard to remember that this too shall pass.”