The United States Department of State has announced new public health arrival restrictions and enhanced Ebola screening measures targeting travellers arriving from the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), Uganda, and South Sudan.

In an updated health alert issued on Friday, May 22, 2026, U.S. authorities said American citizens and lawful permanent residents (LPRs) who have been present in any of the three countries within 21 days before arrival in the United States will now be required to enter through designated airports for additional health screening.

Designated airports for enhanced screening

According to the notice, the restrictions will be implemented in phases across three major U.S. airports.

Travelers will be directed to Washington Dulles International Airport (IAD) for flights arriving after 11:59 pm on May 21, 2026, Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport (ATL) for flights arriving after 11:59 pm on May 22, 2026, and George Bush Intercontinental Airport (IAH) in Houston for flights departing after 11:59 pm on May 26, 2026.

The measures apply to all affected passengers, including U.S. citizens and lawful permanent residents.

“Health Alert: Worldwide Caution – Updated Public Health Arrival Restrictions and Enhanced Ebola Screening – May 22, 2026
Event: U.S.-bound American citizens and lawful permanent residents (LPRs) who have been present in the Democratic Republic of the Congo, Uganda, or South Sudan within 21 days of arrival in the United States must only enter through the following airports for enhanced screening,” the notice reads in part.

Enhanced Ebola screening

The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), working alongside the Department of Homeland Security’s Customs and Border Protection (CBP), will conduct enhanced public health screening procedures at the designated airports.

Officials said the measures are part of efforts to prevent the spread of Ebola amid the ongoing outbreak concerns in parts of East and Central Africa.

Travellers have also been warned to expect possible flight changes, rerouting, or cancellations as airlines adjust operations to comply with the new directives.

“The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the Department of Homeland Security’s (DHS) Customs and Border Protection (CBP) will apply enhanced public health screening at IAD in response to the Ebola outbreak. This requirement applies to all passengers, including U.S. citizens and LPRs, who were present in those countries. Please be prepared for flight changes or cancellations,” the notice reads.

Advisory to travelers

The U.S. government urged affected travellers to closely monitor travel updates and confirm flight arrangements directly with airlines before departure.

Passengers were also advised to review CDC guidance on travel from DRC, Uganda, and South Sudan.

Authorities encouraged Americans abroad to enrol in the Smart Traveller Enrolment Program (STEP) to receive real-time safety and security updates.

The latest measures underscore rising international concern over Ebola outbreaks in parts of Africa and reflect increased vigilance by governments seeking to contain potential cross-border transmission.

Health agencies worldwide continue monitoring the situation closely as international travel protocols tighten in response to the outbreak.