The United States Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has announced a temporary emergency order aimed at preventing the possible spread of Ebola Virus Disease into the country following recent outbreaks in parts of Central and East Africa.
The measure, signed by CDC Director Dr. Jay Bhattacharya, introduces a 30-day restriction on the entry of certain non-U.S. travelers who have recently been in outbreak-affected areas, including the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC), Uganda, and high-risk regions of South Sudan.
According to the CDC, the action is intended to reduce public health risks linked to the recent rise in Ebola cases associated with the Bundibugyo virus strain.
Under the directive, individuals classified as “covered aliens” who have been present in the affected countries within the last 21 days will temporarily be barred from entering the United States.
However, the order does not affect U.S. citizens, lawful permanent residents, members of the U.S. Armed Forces, government personnel stationed abroad, or their immediate families.
The CDC explained that the temporary restrictions are designed to ease pressure on quarantine stations, airport screening systems, and public health laboratories, while allowing health officials to focus monitoring and contact tracing efforts on returning American citizens and residents.
Health authorities noted that concentrating resources on a smaller and more traceable group of travelers would strengthen surveillance and improve the ability to quickly isolate anyone who develops symptoms during Ebola’s 21-day incubation period.
The agency also stated that humanitarian and public health exceptions may be granted on a case-by-case basis, with customs officials considering special circumstances involving law enforcement or emergency health needs.
To ensure smooth implementation, the CDC said it is working closely with the Department of Homeland Security (DHS), the Department of State, and other federal agencies. Operational measures have reportedly been finalized at major U.S. airports, including New York’s JFK Airport, Washington Dulles International Airport, Atlanta’s Hartsfield-Jackson Airport, Chicago O’Hare International Airport, and Los Angeles International Airport.
International health bodies such as the World Health Organization (WHO) and Africa CDC are also continuing containment efforts in the affected African countries.
The CDC indicated that the 30-day period will be used to conduct further risk assessments, strengthen domestic surveillance and diagnostic systems, and develop a long-term response strategy to address the Ebola threat.
The agency has additionally opened a public comment period to gather feedback that could help shape future public health measures and preparedness plans.
 has announced a temporary emergency order aimed at preventing the possible spread of Ebola Virus Disease into the country following recent outbreaks in parts of Central and East Africa.){kind=link}