The US government announced on Thursday that it will begin diverting Ugandan tourists to one of five airports so they can be checked 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 concerning because to its quick expansion and the fact that it is brought on by a strain for which neither vaccinations nor therapies have been authorised.
According to the World Health Organization, more than 60 confirmed and probable cases as well as 29 fatalities—including four medical personnel—were documented in just two weeks.
Officials in charge of global health are concerned that the virus may have been circulating longer than previously thought.
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.
All Ugandan travellers to the United States get a medical check out of concern for Ebola.
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