US Tightens Entry Rules for Travelers Due to Ebola Concerns

Effective November 3, the United States is implementing new entry requirements for international air travelers, including those from Israel, to prevent the spread of the Ebola virus. Developed by the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the measures are a response to the Ebola outbreak in the Democratic Republic of Congo. All passengers flying to the US, or transiting through its airports, will be required to provide written confirmation that they have not been in the Democratic Republic of Congo within the past 21 days. This applies regardless of nationality, purpose of travel, or whether the traveler left the transit zone or plane. Even brief stays in Congolese airports count as visiting the country. Israeli travelers departing from Ben Gurion Airport will be subject to these new rules. The confirmation can be submitted in paper or electronic format and applies to adults, children, and crew members on both commercial and private flights. Airlines are instructed not to allow passengers without the required confirmation to board. Failure to sign the document may result in being denied boarding, while providing false information could lead to criminal prosecution, significant fines, or imprisonment. Exceptions may be granted for humanitarian reasons or with special US government approval. The CDC's decision stems from the ongoing Ebola situation in the DRC, where over 10,200 infections and nearly 5,000 deaths had been reported by late October. The 21-day period is based on the virus's maximum incubation period. These new restrictions specifically target air travel, with no similar measures announced for sea or land arrivals.