COVID-19: Vaccination is no longer mandatory on cruises

The National Health Surveillance Agency (Anvisa) announced, on Thursday (29), new measures for boarding cruise ships. From now on, the proof of vaccination against COVID-19 is no longer mandatory for boarding.

With the change, travelers will be able to choose to present a rapid test or negative RT-PCR for the disease, carried out up to one day before boarding, or else proof of vaccination. Previously, vaccination was mandatory and could not be replaced by the presentation of a test. Self-tests are still not allowed.

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In addition, face protection masks and social distancing are also no longer mandatory. The requirements apply to both Brazilians and foreigners from the age of three.

According to Anvisa, the new sanitary control measures were approved due to the end of the Public Health Emergency of National Importance (ESPIN), caused by the coronavirus. With the changes, vessels coming from abroad will only be able to enter Brazilian ports designated by the World Health Organization (WHO), in order to ensure that there is an inspection team at these points.

Sanitary measures that continue to be maintained

Despite the flexibility, some health measures in force are still maintained by Anvisa. Are they:

• Availability of gel alcohol;

• Cleaning and disinfection procedures;

• Operation of air conditioning systems in the most efficient conditions;

• Monitoring of cases on board and possible application of isolation measures for confirmed and suspected cases and their close contacts.

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In addition, vessels and travelers remain subject to isolation and quarantine conditions in case of confirmed, suspected or asymptomatic close contact with COVID-19. According to current rules:

• Mild to moderate confirmed case: 10 days of isolation (on board or disembarked);

• Serious confirmed case: 20 days of isolation (on board or disembarked);

• Symptomatic suspected case: isolation (on board or disembarked) until symptoms remission, with immediate testing;

• Asymptomatic close contact: five days of isolation (on board or disembarked), with immediate testing of the positive result of the confirmed case, with retesting after five days.