U.S. Implements Enhanced Airport Screening Amid Ebola Outbreak

The United States has begun enhanced airport screening and imposed entry restrictions to curb the spread of Ebola, following outbreaks in East and Central Africa. The measures, implemented on May 18, 2026, involve the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), Department of Homeland Security (DHS), and other federal agencies ^[1][2].

The CDC announced that non-U.S. passport holders who have been in Uganda, the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC), or South Sudan in the previous 21 days are subject to entry restrictions ^[1][2]. U.S. citizens and lawful permanent residents who have visited these countries must enter the United States through Washington Dulles International Airport for enhanced screening ^[2][3].

An Air France flight bound for Detroit was diverted to Montreal after a passenger from the DRC boarded in error, highlighting the challenges of implementing the new restrictions ^[3][2].

One American has tested positive for Ebola in the DRC. The individual developed symptoms over the weekend and tested positive late Sunday. The person is being evacuated to the United States for treatment ^[4][5].

The Ebola outbreak in the DRC involves the Bundibugyo strain, for which there is no approved vaccine or treatment ^[5][3]. The World Health Organization (WHO) has declared the Ebola outbreak in the DRC and Uganda a public health emergency of international concern ^[5][3].

What Is Known

The U.S. has implemented travel restrictions and enhanced screening at airports to prevent the spread of Ebola. An American has tested positive for Ebola in the DRC and is being evacuated for treatment. The outbreak involves the Bundibugyo strain, and the WHO has declared it a public health emergency ^{[1][2][3][4][5]}.

What Remains Unclear

It remains unconfirmed whether at least six Americans in the DRC have been exposed to Ebola, with three exposures deemed high risk, as reported by CBS News via Reuters ^[1].