CDC warns against cruise travel, regardless of vaccination status, as COVID-19 Omicron variant spreads

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has issued a travel advisory warning U.S residents to "avoid cruise travel" as the COVID-19 Omicron variant continues to spread rapidly across the country. 

On Thursday, the CDC updated its guidance for cruise ship travel, moving from a Level 3 to a Level 4 warning — the highest threat level. The CDC previously advised that those who are unvaccinated should avoid cruise and river travel, but now says all residents, even those who are fully vaccinated, should avoid cruises. 

The close quarters on ships can allow COVID-19 to spread extremely quickly, increasing the chance of passengers getting the virus, according to the CDC.