Released by CLIA (Cruise Lines International Association, Inc.), May 15, 2009

Effective this afternoon, the CDC’s Travel Health Warning recommending against non-essential travel to Mexico, in effect since April 27, 2009, has now been downgraded to a Travel Health Precaution for Mexico.

CDC Recommendations
At this time, CDC has removed its recommendation that U.S. travelers avoid travel to Mexico. CDC continues to recommend that travelers visiting Mexico take steps to protect themselves from getting novel H1N1 flu. CDC also recommends that travelers at high risk for complications from any form of influenza discuss with their physicians the risks and benefits of travel in the context of their planned itinerary.

Current Situation
CDC has been monitoring the ongoing outbreak of novel H1N1 flu in Mexico and, with the assistance of the Mexican authorities, has obtained a more complete picture of the outbreak. There is evidence that the Mexican outbreak is slowing down in many cities though not all. In addition, the United States and other countries are now seeing increasing numbers of cases not associated with travel to Mexico. Finally, the risk of severe disease from novel H1N1 virus infection now appears to be less than originally thought. For more info: http://wwwn.cdc.gov/travel/content/travel-health-precaution/novel-h1n1-flu-mexico.aspx

Stay Tuned and Support Travel to Mexico
This announcement was made at 4:30 pm EST today, May 15th. Please stay tuned regarding any announcements from CLIA member cruise lines and the re-instatement of Mexican destinations on upcoming cruise itineraries. While we appreciate and applaud today’s decision, we also urge cruise line passengers to follow CDC’s recommendations on travel. CLIA member lines already go to great length to maintain clean and sanitary environments aboard our vessels with the most comprehensive and proactive health and sanitation protocols in the travel and tourism industry. The industry will continue to work with the CDC and other governmental agencies in an effort to mitigate illnesses that may occur aboard cruise ships.