By Kwame Bediako
The United States has temporarily restricted entry for non‑US citizens travelling from Ebola‑affected countries, including the Democratic Republic of Congo, Uganda and South Sudan, using Title 42 public health measures amid a worsening Bundibugyo‑strain outbreak in Central and East Africa.
The CDC announced the restrictions on May 18, with an initial 30‑day duration and a possible extension depending on how the outbreak evolves; they include enhanced airport screening, public health monitoring, and temporary entry limits for foreign nationals who recently transited those countries.
Ebola outbreak and public‑health concerns
The WHO has declared the outbreak in DR Congo and Uganda a Public Health Emergency of International Concern, citing over 300 suspected cases and at least 80 deaths. The Bundibugyo strain currently has no approved vaccine or specific treatment, raising concerns about controlling spread, especially via air travel.
Impact on the 2026 FIFA World Cup
The World Cup begins on June 11 across the United States, Canada and Mexico, and the entry restrictions could affect travel plans for players, officials and fans from Ebola‑affected regions if the outbreak continues near tournament dates. DR Congo, one of the 10 African qualifiers, ended a 52‑year World Cup drought after qualifying via the intercontinental playoffs, defeating Jamaica. They are in Group K with Portugal, Colombia and Uzbekistan.
DR Congo’s World Cup preparations
The Leopards, coached by Sébastien Desabre, have assembled a squad including Aaron Wan‑Bissaka and Fiston Mayele and have opened a training camp in Houston, Texas. Neither FIFA nor US authorities have yet announced sport‑specific exemptions or special protocols for DR Congo’s delegation, so the situation will be closely watched as the tournament approaches and the public‑health measures are reviewed.
