The United States government has announced enhanced Ebola screening measures for travelers arriving from the Democratic Republic of the Congo, Uganda, and South Sudan following an outbreak of the deadly virus.
The U.S. Department of State said all U.S.-bound American citizens and lawful permanent residents who have been in the three countries within 21 days prior to travel must enter the United States through Washington Dulles International Airport for mandatory health screening.
The screening will be conducted jointly by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the Department of Homeland Security’s Customs and Border Protection (CBP).
The State Department warned travelers to prepare for possible flight changes and disruptions as authorities intensify monitoring measures.
The advisory also urged Americans worldwide, especially those in the Middle East, to exercise increased caution due to heightened security concerns and possible travel disruptions caused by periodic airspace closures.
U.S. citizens abroad were advised to follow guidance from the nearest embassy or consulate and enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) for security updates.
The latest measures come amid growing international concern over the spread of Ebola and rising security tensions affecting global travel.
