US Travelers Face New Ebola Health Declaration

A new federal health rule took effect on November 3, 2026.

The requirement targets the ongoing Ebola outbreak in the Democratic Republic of the Congo. It applies to every person entering the United States or connecting through a U.S. airport. This includes tourists, permanent residents, and U.S. citizens. No nationality is exempt from the new protocol.

Passengers must provide a health declaration document in either physical or digital format. The document serves as a certification that the traveler has not been in the Democratic Republic of the Congo during the 21 days prior to boarding. This timeframe is strict. It includes airport layovers even if the passenger remains inside the aircraft and never deplanes. Airlines are responsible for verifying this status before issuing a boarding pass. If the declaration is missing, the passenger will be denied boarding. Travelers who visited the region within that window must rebook their flights according to the new health guidelines.

The change adds a step for travelers using Hartsfield Jackson Atlanta International Airport. Major international carriers operating routes to Atlanta are tasked with informing passengers and checking the document at the counter. Officials recommend that passengers check the CDC website or their airline's portal to download the correct form. They should fill it out in advance and bring a printed copy to speed up the check-in process. For those flying from Latin America with an international stopover before reaching Atlanta, the 21 day rule applies to the entire itinerary.

The measure is part of a temporary exception to standard health screening. It aims to prevent the spread of the virus through air travel. Passengers are advised to contact their specific airline for details on the current form. They should also monitor CDC updates for any changes to the requirement.