CDC updated its Ebola response on May 18, saying it is expanding screening, traveler monitoring and entry restrictions for arrivals tied to the DRC and Uganda outbreak. WHO has declared the outbreak a public health emergency of international concern, and Reuters reported one American tested positive after exposure in the DRC.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention said Monday it is expanding screening, traveler monitoring and entry restrictions in response to the Ebola outbreak in the Democratic Republic of the Congo and Uganda.
The update comes after the World Health Organization declared the outbreak a public health emergency of international concern on May 16. CDC said the American public remains at low risk, but U.S. health officials are tightening measures around travelers linked to the affected countries.
CDC said it is enhancing public health screening and traveler monitoring for arrivals from the DRC, Uganda and South Sudan. It also said entry restrictions apply to non-U.S. passport holders who were in the DRC, Uganda or South Sudan within the previous 21 days.
Reuters reported that one American tested positive after exposure in the DRC. CDC’s public statement did not identify the person.
The outbreak involves Bundibugyo virus disease, and CDC and WHO said there are no approved Bundibugyo-specific vaccines or therapeutics available.
What happens next
Health officials are watching for further case counts, possible additional travel measures and any new details about exposed contacts or cross-border spread. CDC said it has mobilized its international response as the outbreak continues to evolve.
Revision note
Initial automated publication.