Enhanced Ebola Screenings Begin at Three U.S. Airports

Starting May 26, 2026, travelers arriving in the United States who have recently visited the Democratic Republic of Congo, Uganda, or South Sudan will undergo enhanced Ebola screenings. This new measure is being implemented at three major U.S. airports: Bush Intercontinental Airport in Houston, Dulles International Airport, and Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport. The U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP), in coordination with the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), is rolling out these expanded checks to bolster public health defenses against the spread of the virus.

The enhanced screening process specifically targets passenger traffic. It applies to individuals who have been in the Democratic Republic of Congo, Uganda, or South Sudan within the past 21 days. This timeframe is significant as it aligns with the incubation period of the Ebola virus. The measure does not include crew members or cargo-only flights, focusing solely on passengers entering the country.

Airports Involved in Enhanced Screening

Bush Intercontinental Airport in Houston is one of the three designated entry points for these enhanced Ebola screenings. This airport, a major international gateway, will begin implementing the new procedures after 10:59 p.m. Houston time on May 26, 2026. Alongside Houston, Dulles International Airport and Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport are also part of this coordinated effort. These three airports will now handle arrivals from the specified countries under stricter health checks.

The selection of these three airports indicates a strategic approach to managing potential risks. By concentrating the enhanced screenings at major hubs, authorities can more effectively monitor and manage travelers who may have been exposed to Ebola. This allows for a focused application of resources and expertise in public health surveillance at the border.

Screening Criteria and Timeline

The core of the new screening policy centers on a traveler’s recent travel history. Passengers arriving in the U.S. who have visited the Democratic Republic of Congo, Uganda, or South Sudan within the last 21 days will be subject to the additional checks. This 21-day period is a critical factor, as it covers the maximum incubation period for the Ebola virus. Travelers who have not been in these countries during this specific window will not be subject to the enhanced screening.

The operational start date for these enhanced screenings is precise. At Bush Intercontinental Airport, the new procedures will commence after 10:59 p.m. Houston time on Tuesday, May 26, 2026. This clear timeline is intended to help airlines, airport staff, and travelers prepare for the changes in the arrival process. Passengers should anticipate a more thorough entry procedure if their travel history falls within the specified criteria.

Public Health Coordination

This initiative is presented as a collaborative public health effort between CBP and the CDC. The goal is to expand existing screening measures and create a more robust system for detecting potential Ebola cases among international travelers. By working together, these agencies aim to protect public health in the United States while facilitating legitimate travel. The focus remains on passenger safety and preventing the introduction of infectious diseases.

The exclusion of crew and cargo flights highlights the specific nature of this measure. It is designed to address the risks associated with passenger travel, where individuals may have had more varied interactions and potential exposures. This targeted approach ensures that resources are directed where they are most needed, without unduly disrupting essential trade and transportation operations.