CDC suspends entry for non-citizens from DRC, Uganda, South Sudan due to Ebola outbreak

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has issued an interim final rule that temporarily bars people who are not U.S. citizens or nationals from entering the United States if they have recently traveled in the Democratic Republic of Congo, Uganda, or South Sudan. This action targets travelers from these specific countries to prevent the spread of a new Ebola outbreak caused by the Bundibugyo virus.

Why it matters: This action matters because it changes how travelers from three specific African nations must navigate entry into the United States during an active health crisis. While the immediate impact is limited to individuals with recent travel history in these regions, it demonstrates how quickly federal agencies can restrict movement based on public health data rather than political policy.

Who it affects

• Travelers who are not U.S. citizens or nationals and have recently visited the Democratic Republic of Congo, Uganda, or South Sudan.

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This rule was issued by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, part of the Department of Health and Human Services, as published in the Federal Register. You should check the original document for specific definitions of “recent travel” and any exemptions that may apply to your situation.

Agency: Health and Human Services Department
Source: Federal Register — read the official document