Norwegian Cruise Line has issued an update to travel agents on steps it is taking to protect guests following the recent declaration of a public health emergency by the World Health Organization over the spread of the Zika virus.
The cruise line is advising guests to protect themselves from mosquito and other insects bites while ashore and is updating guests on the Center for Disease Control travel advisories and recommended precautions in daily communications.
"At this time, the only passengers who are advised not to travel to affected areas are expectant mothers and we have made accommodations for those very few affected guests to reschedule their cruise for a future date in the next two years or change their itinerary to non-affected destinations," the line said in a letter to travel agents. "For those guests who have opted to purchase a Travel Protection policy, cancellations are covered under the 'Cancel for Any Reason' portion of the policy."
Norwegian also said the recommended method for avoiding risk is to take steps to protect from mosquito and other insect bites and follow the CDC guidelines, which include covering exposed skin by wearing long-sleeved shirts, long pants, and hats and use an appropriate insect repellent containing DEET.
Visit www.cdc.gov/zika