U.S. CDC Imposes 30-Day Entry Ban on Foreign Nationals from Ebola-Affected African Nations

Atlanta/Washington, May 19, 2026 — The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has announced a temporary suspension of entry into the United States for foreign nationals who have recently been in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC), Uganda, or South Sudan amid a concerning Ebola outbreak in Central Africa.

The order, issued on May 18, 2026, takes immediate effect and will last for an initial period of 30 days.

U.S. CDC imposes 30‑day entry ban on foreign nationals from Ebola‑affected African nations.

Details of the CDC Order

The restriction is applicable to any foreign national who has been physically present in the Democratic Republic of the Congo, Uganda, or South Sudan in the last 21 days, regardless of their nationality or country of origin.

This measure is being implemented under federal public health authority to prevent the possible introduction of Ebola into the United States.

Who Is Exempted from the Ban?

The suspension does not apply to the following groups:

• U.S. citizens and U.S. nationals

• Lawful Permanent Residents (Green Card holders)

• Members of the U.S. military, U.S. government personnel stationed overseas, and their immediate family members

• Individuals granted case-by-case exceptions by U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) for humanitarian, law enforcement, public safety, or significant public health reasons

• Other exceptions approved by the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) in coordination with the CDC

Background on the Ebola Outbreak

This decision is a response to a recent Ebola virus disease outbreak reported in certain regions of Central Africa. Health officials are carefully observing the situation, especially the cross-border movement that could speed up the spread.

Ebola is a severe and often fatal viral hemorrhagic fever. While outbreaks are typically contained through rapid public health responses, the CDC is taking proactive steps to protect the U.S. population during this heightened risk period.

At the end of the 30-day period, the CDC will reassess the epidemiological situation and determine whether the restrictions should be extended, modified, or lifted.

Practical Implications for Travelers

• Foreign nationals planning travel to the U.S. who have recently visited the affected countries should postpone non-essential trips.

• Airlines and travel operators are expected to enforce screening measures for passengers departing from or transiting through high-risk areas.

• U.S. visa processing for nationals from the region may face additional scrutiny during this period.

This is the first major country-specific public health entry restriction issued by the CDC in several years, highlighting the seriousness with which U.S. health authorities are treating the current Ebola situation in Africa.

Travelers are strongly advised to check the latest CDC travel health notices and consult with their airlines or immigration counsel before making any international travel plans.

For the latest updates on U.S. entry restrictions, health-related travel bans, visas, and immigration policy changes, visit: visasupdate.com/blog/categories/usa