On June 17, the CDC will issue more detailed travel policy in response to the outbreak.
The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has expanded its 30-day ban on entry to the United States to green card holders over the widening Ebola outbreak in central Africa.
The May 22 update, states that any foreign nationals or green card holders who have been in countries experiencing a known or suspected outbreak of Bundibugyo ebolavirus disease—the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC), Uganda, or South Sudan—at any point in the last 21 days, regardless of their country of origin, are suspended from entering the United States until June 17. At that time, the CDC will issue more detailed policy in response to the outbreak.
The CDC said the 30-day period will give acting director Dr. Jay Bhattacharya time to “make an informed determination” about necessary travel restrictions going forward.
U.S. citizens and U.S. nationals may still return from the countries of concern, but will face “enhanced public health entry screening.” However, the CDC warned that the screening is not able to identify “travelers who are infected but not yet showing symptoms,” as symptoms of Ebola can take up to 21 days to develop after initial exposure.
“Screening is one part of a broader, layered public health approach that also includes exit screening overseas, airline illness reporting, and public health monitoring after arrival,” the CDC said.
Arrivals from these countries will have their flights re-routed to arrive at select airports. “Some travelers may have an additional public health assessment if they have been in certain situations,” the agency added.
Those allowed to go home will be sent automated text messages with reminders to monitor their health and actions to take if symptoms develop. State and local health departments will be provided with traveler lists and contact information for additional follow-up and support.
The temporary measure is in place under Title 42 travel restrictions—the same authority used during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Ebola is a disease caused by orthoebolaviruses. It can cause common symptoms such as fever, aches, pains, and fatigue, and in severe cases, vomiting, and unexplained bleeding.
By Melanie Sun
