CDC Implements Ebola-Related Entry Restrictions for DRC, Uganda, and South Sudan

Enhanced Ebola Screening Measures Implemented for U.S. Arrivals

As of May 21, 2026, the U.S. Government has introduced significant public health measures to mitigate the risk of Ebola transmission. Following an order issued by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) on May 18, 2026, the United States has suspended entry for foreign nationals who have been in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), Uganda, or South Sudan within the 21 days preceding their arrival.

To ensure robust oversight, the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) announced that all flights carrying passengers who have recently traveled from these regions must land at Washington-Dulles International Airport (IAD). This directive, effective as of 11:59 p.m. On May 20, 2026, centralizes arrivals to facilitate mandatory, enhanced public health screenings.

Understanding Public Health Entry Screening

The CDC’s screening protocol is designed as a layered defense strategy. While the risk of Ebola within the United States remains low and no cases have been reported domestically to date, these measures are intended to detect symptomatic travelers early and prevent potential spread.

The screening process at Washington-Dulles involves several critical steps:

• Travel History and Symptom Assessment: Arriving passengers are required to complete a questionnaire regarding their recent travel and any symptoms they may be experiencing.
• Clinical Observation: CDC staff perform visual checks for signs of illness and utilize non-contact thermometers to record body temperatures.
• Public Health Follow-up: Travelers who remain asymptomatic are provided with guidance on self-monitoring for symptoms. Their contact information is shared with local and state health departments to ensure ongoing support and follow-up.
• Medical Evaluation: Any individual presenting with a fever or other symptoms consistent with Ebola will be evaluated immediately by a CDC public health officer.

In the event that a suspected case is identified, the CDC coordinates directly with state and local authorities to initiate contact investigations and implement necessary public health actions.

Travel Logistics and Coordination

For passengers currently scheduled for travel to the United States who have visited the DRC, Uganda, or South Sudan within the last 21 days, airlines are responsible for contacting them to arrange rebooking to Washington-Dulles. U.S. Citizens, nationals, and lawful permanent residents who have visited these countries are permitted to enter the U.S. But must undergo the same enhanced screening procedures at the designated airport.

Key Takeaways

• Travel Restrictions: Entry is suspended for foreign nationals who have been in the DRC, Uganda, or South Sudan in the 21 days prior to travel.
• Designated Port of Entry: All relevant flights are being redirected to Washington-Dulles International Airport (IAD).
• Domestic Risk: The CDC maintains that the risk of Ebola in the United States is currently low, with no confirmed or suspected cases reported domestically.
• Collaborative Response: The CDC is working closely with state and local health partners to ensure that domestic health systems are prepared to manage any potential arrivals who may become ill.

The CDC continues to monitor the situation closely and is prepared to provide additional resources as the outbreak evolves. For the most current updates on the situation and official guidance, please visit the official CDC Ebola resource page.