The United States has announced that American citizens who have traveled to the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) may be prevented from boarding return flights to prevent the spread of Ebola. The US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) are collaborating on a 'DO NOT BOARD' process for travelers from the DRC. This measure aims to ensure that individuals spend 21 days outside the country before returning to the United States.
Screening Process
The CDC will conduct public health screenings of citizens departing the DRC to assess whether a 'Do Not Board' request should be made to the DHS for a particular passenger. This screening process is designed to evaluate the risk of Ebola importation into the United States.
Current Outbreak Situation
The Ebola outbreak in the DRC has resulted in over 2,000 cases and 754 deaths. The World Health Organization (WHO) warns that the actual number of cases may be two to four times higher than reported. The outbreak has spread to five provinces in the DRC. While there is no approved vaccine or treatment for the Bundibugyo strain of Ebola currently causing the outbreak, the WHO has initiated the first clinical trial of an antiviral drug.
