The Centers for Disease Control announced travel restrictions this week as they work to stop the re-emerging Ebola virus from entering the United States.
Wednesday, May 20, 2026 3:51AMThe Centers for Disease Control and Prevention announced enhanced travel restrictions this week aimed at preventing the re-emerging Ebola virus from entering the United States as outbreaks continue in remote areas of Uganda and the Democratic Republic of the Congo.
The restrictions come as Houston prepares to host the Congolese national soccer team and its supporters during the FIFA World Cup, marking Congo's first World Cup appearance in more than 50 years. CDC officials said Monday the agency is increasing screenings and limiting entry for some travelers who have recently been in affected countries.
"We're actively working with FIFA to ensure that there is safe traveling, safe passage, and ensuring that travelers and the American public remain safe throughout," Dr. Satish K. Pillai, incident manager for the CDC's Ebola response, said during a call with reporters. Under the order, non-U.S. citizens who have been in the Democratic Republic of Congo, Uganda or South Sudan within the previous 21 days may be denied entry into the United States.
Exceptions include U.S. citizens, military personnel, and certain humanitarian cases, according to the CDC. Despite the restrictions, CDC officials say the risk to the American public and travelers remains low. The timing has raised concerns for members of Houston's Congolese community, who are preparing to welcome supporters traveling for the tournament.
"We're waiting to host them because we have a big Congolese community here in Houston," Deborah Malonga of La Congolaise Restaurant said. Community organizers say the World Cup appearance is a historic moment for Congo and an opportunity to showcase Congolese culture.
"For us, it's a big celebration. It's a big moment," said Chancelier Nkaloa, a Congolese organizer helping coordinate events and support for visiting fans and dignitaries. Organizers say they hope restrictions could ease before the tournament begins if outbreaks remain contained and additional data show a lower risk.
"We are hoping the U.S. will loosen the restrictions as they start getting more accurate data about the Ebola," Nkaloa said. Dr. Jon McCullers, dean of the University of Houston College of Medicine, said the United States is equipped to handle international visitors and called the restrictions a precautionary measure.
"I think it's very, very unlikely we have any issue here in Houston," McCullers said. "The travel ban is in place to prevent that. " Congolese organizers hope fans will attend in full force as the country returns to the World Cup stage after more than 5 decades. "We want the World Cup to be a big event," Nkaloa said.
"Without Congo, I don't think the World Cup will be a big event. " The CDC says the current order remains in effect through June 17 - the same day Congo is scheduled to open World Cup play against Portugal.
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