According to the US government, it will begin directing travellers from Uganda to one of five airports so they may be tested for the Ebola virus.
According to The US Embassy in Uganda, beginning on Friday, all passengers flying into the United States from Uganda will be directed to JFK, Newark Liberty International, Hartsfield-Jackson in Atlanta, O’Hare International in Chicago, or Dulles International in Washington, DC, for screening. This is being done “out of extreme caution.”
There have been no suspected or confirmed Ebola cases in the United States as of yet; cases have only been confirmed in Uganda.
However, the outbreak is worrisome because of its rapid growth, and because it is caused by a strain for which there are no approved vaccines or treatments.
More than 60 confirmed and probable cases were reported in just two weeks and 29 deaths, including four health workers, according to the World Health Organization.
Global health officials fear that the virus has been spreading undetected for longer than reported.
Passengers may anticipate having their temperature taken and being asked to complete an Ebola health questionnaire; the information will then be shared with the US and local health departments for follow-up with arrivals. It is unclear how long these regulations will be in effect.
Due to the Ebola outbreak, the US undertakes medical screening and referrals for all passengers from Uganda.
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