What to know
- CDC temporarily restricted entry for certain travelers who were recently in DRC, Uganda, or South Sudan.
- U.S. citizens, nationals, and lawful permanent residents may still enter but will undergo enhanced screening.
- Travelers should monitor for Ebola symptoms for 21 days after leaving affected countries.
- Anyone who develops symptoms should avoid travel and contact public health authorities immediately.
General Information
Why is CDC taking these actions?
CDC issued emergency public health measures to help reduce the risk of Ebola spreading into the United States during the current outbreak response. Ebola is a serious viral disease that spreads through direct contact with infected bodily fluids and can be fatal. Because people exposed to Ebola may travel before symptoms begin, CDC is implementing layered prevention measures.
Entry Restrictions
Who is prohibited from entering the United States?
Under a CDC Order effective May 18, 2026, certain non-U.S. citizens who were in DRC, South Sudan, or Uganda, within the past 21 days are temporarily prohibited from entering the United States.
How long will this last?
The suspension is temporary and is currently set to remain in effect for 30 days while CDC completes a public health risk assessment and coordinates mitigation measures with partner agencies.
Public Health Entry Screening and Travel Procedures
If I am not subject to the entry restrictions, what happens after I arrive in the United States?
Travelers permitted to enter the United States who have recently been in DRC, South Sudan, or Uganda will undergo enhanced public health entry screening.
Will my flight change?
Possibly. Beginning May 20, 2026, at 11:59 PM, these travelers will have their air travel re-routed to arrive at Washington-Dulles International Airport (IAD). Airlines will work with affected travelers to rebook flights.
What happens during public health entry screening?
Travelers may:
- Be escorted to a designated screening area
- Complete a brief questionnaire about travel history and symptoms
- Have their temperature checked using non-contact thermometers
- Be observed for signs of illness by CDC staff
CDC may also collect contact information for follow-up by state or local public health authorities if needed. Some travelers may have an additional public health assessment if they have been in certain situations.
What if I do not have symptoms?
Travelers without symptoms will receive information about monitoring their health for 21 days after leaving the affected countries. Most travelers without symptoms will continue to their final destination after public health entry screening.
What if I have symptoms during screening?
Travelers with fever or other symptoms that could be Ebola will receive additional evaluation by a CDC public health officer. If the assessment shows that a traveler may be sick with Ebola, the traveler will be transferred to a hospital for further medical evaluation and isolation.
Public Health Follow-Up
Will CDC contact me after I arrive?
CDC will use automated text messages to remind travelers arriving from DRC, South Sudan, or Uganda to monitor their health and actions to take if symptoms develop. Traveler contact information will also be shared with state and local health departments for additional follow-up and support.
Does screening detect every Ebola case?
No. Public health entry screening cannot identify travelers who are infected but not yet showing symptoms. Ebola symptoms can develop up to 21 days after exposure. Screening is one part of a broader, layered public health approach that also includes exit screening overseas, airline illness reporting, and public health monitoring after arrival.