CDC Scraps Ship Sanitation Program, Illnesses Rise

The CDC's ship inspection program is gone, just as cruise ship illnesses like norovirus have jumped 12 times this year. This is the worst in over 10 years.
By Newsroom | Health, Travel |

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has effectively dismantled its Vessel Sanitation Program (VSP), laying off all full-time employees responsible for inspecting cruise ships and investigating onboard disease outbreaks. This move comes as the cruise industry faces a significant uptick in gastrointestinal illnesses, particularly norovirus. Reports indicate a dozen outbreaks have already occurred this year, exceeding the typical pace.

The VSP, overseen by the CDC's Division of Environmental Health Science and Practice, has been a primary mechanism for monitoring and controlling public health threats on cruise vessels. Its functions extended beyond just tracking norovirus, serving as a critical line of defense against various health issues for passengers and crew. The program, reportedly funded through fees collected from cruise lines rather than taxpayer dollars, appears to have been impacted by broader staff reductions within the Department of Health and Human Services.

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Despite assurances from some officials that cruise ship inspections would continue, the elimination of the VSP's dedicated staff raises questions about the program's future capacity to conduct thorough investigations and health assessments. The organization reportedly still has a dozen U.S. Public Health Service officers on staff, but multiple officials indicate the program's civilian workforce has been "gutted."

This reduction in oversight has drawn criticism from lawmakers, including Senator Richard Blumenthal and Representative Doris Matsui, who have penned a letter to the CDC expressing concern over the program's diminishment. They argue that such cuts are "short-sighted" and could lead to an increase in illnesses.

The timing of these staff changes is particularly notable, occurring during a period marked by a substantial increase in cruise ship-related gastrointestinal outbreaks. This has been described as the worst year for such outbreaks in over a decade. Some within the CDC reportedly find the decision perplexing, especially given the program's established role in safeguarding public health at sea. Reports suggest that recruitment for VSP positions was already challenging due to the demanding travel schedule and the nature of responding to onboard illnesses.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Why did the CDC close its Vessel Sanitation Program?
The CDC has closed its Vessel Sanitation Program and laid off staff. This program checked cruise ships for diseases.
Q: What does the closure of the CDC's sanitation program mean for cruise passengers?
The program's closure means fewer checks on cruise ships. This could lead to more sicknesses like norovirus spreading on ships.
Q: Are cruise ship illnesses increasing?
Yes, cruise ship illnesses are increasing. There have been 12 outbreaks this year, which is more than usual and the worst in over a decade.
Q: Who is concerned about the CDC closing the sanitation program?
Lawmakers like Senator Richard Blumenthal and Representative Doris Matsui are worried. They sent a letter to the CDC saying the cuts are a bad idea and could cause more people to get sick.
Q: How was the CDC's sanitation program funded?
The program was reportedly paid for by fees from cruise lines, not by taxpayer money. It seems to be part of larger staff cuts at the Department of Health and Human Services.