CDC Expands Ebola Airport Screening to Atlanta as Outbreaks Continue in Africa

The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has expanded enhanced public health entry screening for Ebola to Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport, effective May 22, 2026, at 11:59 PM Eastern Daylight Time. This follows similar measures implemented at Washington-Dulles International Airport, which began on May 20, 2026. The action is part of the CDC’s layered public health approach to mitigate the risk of Ebola virus disease (EVD) introduction into the United States amid ongoing outbreaks in East and Central Africa.

Expanded Screening Measures

The CDC’s enhanced airport screening includes health assessments, temperature checks, and questionnaires for travelers arriving from regions affected by Ebola outbreaks. These protocols align with the agency’s authority under Sections 362 and 365 of the Public Health Service Act, which enables public health measures to prevent the spread of quarantinable diseases. Hartsfield-Jackson, which previously conducted enhanced screening, now formalizes these procedures as part of its operational framework.

“These measures are critical to protecting the public’s health while balancing the need for continued international travel,” said CDC officials in a statement. The agency emphasizes that screening is one component of a broader strategy, including overseas exit screening, airline illness reporting, and post-arrival monitoring.

CDC’s Layered Public Health Approach

The CDC’s response reflects a multi-pronged strategy to address Ebola risks. Key elements include:

• Overseas Exit Screening: Collaborating with international partners to identify and monitor travelers potentially exposed to Ebola before departure.
• Airline Illness Reporting: Requiring airlines to report passengers exhibiting symptoms of infectious diseases.
• Post-Arrival Monitoring: Engaging state and local health departments to track travelers who may have been exposed during their journey.

The agency also highlights its commitment to strengthening hospital readiness, expanding laboratory testing capacity, and ensuring coordinated responses at ports of entry nationwide.

Public Health Implications

The decision comes amid ongoing Ebola outbreaks in the Democratic Republic of the Congo and Uganda, where the Bundibugyo virus (BVD) has been detected. While the CDC states there is no evidence of BVD transmission in the U.S., the agency underscores the importance of proactive measures to prevent potential importation of the disease.

Travelers are advised to stay informed about public health guidelines and report symptoms promptly. The CDC maintains a dedicated resource page for travelers, including updates on screening protocols and health advisories.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the purpose of Ebola airport screening?

Screening aims to identify travelers who may have been exposed to Ebola virus disease, preventing its introduction into the U.S. Through early detection and monitoring.

Which airports are affected?

Enhanced screening is now in place at Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport and Washington-Dulles International Airport, with potential expansion to other ports of entry as needed.

How does the CDC ensure screening effectiveness?

The agency collaborates with airlines, international health authorities, and local jurisdictions to implement standardized protocols, including temperature checks, health questionnaires, and contact tracing.

For more information, visit the CDC’s official Ebola response page.