CDC’s Cruise Ship Inspectors Laid Off Amid Record Surge of Norovirus Outbreaks
All full-time employees in the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s Vessel Sanitation Program are now out of a job, according to a recent CBS News Report. This could not come at a worse time. The U.S. has seen a record surge in norovirus outbreaks on cruise ships, driven by a new strain of the virus.
At least a dozen outbreaks of norovirus have been documented this year, affecting hundreds of people. CDC staff were in the middle of responding to two outbreaks when they were let go, according to reports.
These jobs were cut as part of Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy, Jr.’s layoffs across U.S. public health agencies, which included cutting around 2,400 employees of the CDC. A smaller group of 12 Public Health Service Officers will remain.
“Affected services include outbreak investigations, coordination with state and local health departments, follow-up on lab-confirmed cases of acute gastroenteritis after travel, and communications such as website updates,” the CDC official said in a message.
Cruise ship inspectors are tasked with the important job of making sure ships are not cutting corners when it comes to their medical centers, water systems and food safety protocols. For many ships, the CDC serves as the only health department regulating these areas.
The close quarters and high population density on cruise ships make them particularly vulnerable to norovirus outbreaks. Here is a list of ways to avoid contracting the virus on your next cruise.
- Wash your hands with soap and water after using the bathroom, before eating and after touching surfaces touched by others.
- Do not rely on hand sanitizer. These stations are everywhere on cruise ships, and while helpful, hand sanitizer is not as effective against norovirus as thorough hand washing with soap and water.
- Wash your hands thoroughly. Use soap and water and scrub for at least 20 seconds, paying attention to between fingers and under fingernails.
- Avoid touching your face. Minimize touching your eyes, nose, and mouth with unwashed hands.
- Sanitize surfaces. Regularly disinfect frequently touched surfaces like doorknobs, countertops, and handrails.
- Proper food handling. Wash fruits and vegetables thoroughly, cook food to proper temperatures, and avoid cross-contamination in the kitchen.
- Report illness promptly. If you suspect you have norovirus, inform relevant authorities at once to help prevent further spread.
Aronfeld Trial Lawyers has a strong record of success in handling cruise ship injury cases and lawsuits related to foodborne illnesses like norovirus and salmonella. We work to ensure our clients receive justice and compensation. We understand the tactics used by cruise lines to minimize claims and are prepared to counter them effectively. Contact us today by calling (305) 441-0440 or visit our Cruise Ship Injury page for more information.
