CDC adds Ebola screening at Atlanta airport amid ongoing epidemic

The CDC has introduced Ebola screening at Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport, the world’s busiest airport, for passengers arriving from Democratic Republic of Congo, Uganda, and South Sudan. This follows a May 23 announcement expanding existing screenings at Washington-Dulles International Airport, which began May 20. The move responds to a rapidly spreading Ebola outbreak caused by the rare Bundibugyo virus, which has no approved vaccines or treatments. The World Health Organization declared the epidemic a public health emergency of international concern on May 17, citing 91 confirmed cases and 10 deaths in Congo, along with nearly 870 suspected cases and 204 suspected deaths. Uganda has confirmed five cases, including one death. A single American infected while working in Congo was transferred to Germany for treatment, while another at-risk individual was evacuated. The CDC’s enhanced screening is part of a layered public health approach, which includes overseas exit screening, airline illness reporting, and post-arrival monitoring. On May 18, the agency suspended entry for foreign nationals who visited the three affected countries within 21 days, though U.S. citizens could still re-enter. A May 22 rule under Title 42 also blocked lawful permanent residents from entering if they had recent exposure in those countries. Hartsfield-Jackson had previously conducted similar screenings and maintained procedures for public health emergencies. The CDC emphasized that these measures are critical to preventing further spread while balancing travel and safety. The outbreak’s severity and lack of medical countermeasures have intensified global health concerns.