Several countries have stepped up their efforts regarding border screening since an outbreak of the Bundibugyo strain of the Ebola virus has been reported in parts of Central and East Africa. In response to increased risk as declared by the WHO, some countries started applying stricter border control measures for people arriving from affected areas such as the DRC, Uganda, and South Sudan.
Ebola Border Checks 2026, Key measures implemented include enhanced screening and monitoring systems as well as quarantine protocols.
List of Countries That Are Increasing Border Ebola Surveillance in 2026
United States
The CDC and the Department of Homeland Security of the U.S. implemented strict measures for travelers from affected areas of Africa.
Main Measures
Routing to specific airports only for entry into the U.S.:
- Washington Dulles (IAD)
- Atlanta (ATL)
- Houston George Bush International (IAH)
Increased health screening for passengers traveling from:
- Democratic Republic of Congo
- Uganda
- South Sudan
Travel monitoring period of up to 21 days.
India
India has increased surveillance measures at airports and released national health advisories via the Directorate General of Health Services.
Measures Taken
- Thermal screening at all major international airports
- Health declarations
- Surveillance of passengers arriving from infected areas
- Advisories for reporting illness symptoms before clearing immigration
Thailand
Thailand has listed Ebola-affected areas as high-risk territories within its public health policy framework.
Border Surveillance Measures
- Thailand Digital Arrival Card (TDAC) requirement
- Registration of Thai nationals using the Thailand Health Pass
- Increased traveler health screenings at entry points
Bahrain
Bahrain placed temporary restrictions on travelers visiting countries with confirmed Ebola outbreaks.
Restriction Details
Temporary travel restrictions on travelers arriving from:
- DRC
- Uganda
- South Sudan
The ban applies to both direct and indirect arrivals within 30 days. Exemptions granted to Bahraini nationals, but under mandatory quarantine.
Jordan
Strict border control measures have been put in place by Jordan due to the Ebola outbreak.
Current Restrictions
- Travel restrictions on travelers arriving from DRC and Uganda
- Jordanian nationals may enter with a mandatory 21-day quarantine
Rwanda
Increased border security surveillance by Rwanda, being close to areas affected by the disease outbreak.
Border Measures
- Travel suspension for passengers arriving from the DRC
- Compulsory quarantine of nationals and residents of the country
Countries in Africa that are Under Increased Surveillance
The Africa Centres for Disease Control and Prevention named several African countries as surveillance hotspots and recommended increased coordination within these regions.
Countries that are Under Increased Surveillance
- Angola
- Burundi
- Central African Republic
- Republic of the Congo
- Ethiopia
- Kenya
- Rwanda
- South Sudan
- Tanzania
- Zambia
These countries will be increasing their efforts in:
- Border control and surveillance
- Contact tracing
- Surveillance of traveler health
- Emergency preparedness
Why Governments Are Tightening Controls Against Ebola Outbreaks
Outbreaks of Ebola are considered some of the most severe public health concerns due to:
- The high death rates associated with it
- The threat of spreading across borders
- Weak healthcare infrastructure in certain areas
- The ability to spread through community travel
The health organizations are especially worried about:
- Land borders
- Refugee movements
- International air hubs
- Informal trade routes in Central and East Africa
Conclusion
With global surveillance of Ebola cases increasing in 2026, authorities are focusing on measures to prevent transmission of the disease from Central Africa through improved security at borders and screening of travelers. Several countries in Africa, the Middle East, Asia, and North America are already introducing new entry controls.
Authorities will continue to focus on prevention, but travelers are advised to stay vigilant and monitor any developments in border regulations.
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