The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) updated its guidance on Feb. 9, encouraging cruise ships operating in U.S. waters to choose to participate in a COVID-19 color-coding program to help passengers make an “informed decision” before traveling. The program would give each ship a color status indicating the percentage of those on board who are vaccinated. Cruise ships have until Feb. 18 to confirm that they are opting into the program. “CDC’s color-coding system gives travelers information they can use to make informed decisions before choosing to travel,” the CDC stated. “Color status designations indicate the number of COVID-19 cases reported for each ship in the program, whether an investigation is needed, additional public health measures a ship is taking, and whether a ship has opted out of the program.” Under the program, cruise ships that are participating and have at least 95 percent of those on board “up to date with their …