Ottawa to temporarily ban foreign nationals travelling from Congo over Ebola risk
The Canadian government is implementing a temporary travel ban on foreign nationals arriving from Congo to mitigate the risk of Ebola transmission. Canadian citizens and permanent residents are exempt but must undergo a 21-day quarantine upon arrival.
Why it matters
This measure reflects ongoing global health vigilance regarding viral outbreaks, balancing public safety with the movement of humanitarian workers.
The Canadian government said it’s taking a cautious approach as it tightens border restrictions, even though the overall risks remain low to Canadians.
“Limiting entry of foreign nationals who have been in (Congo) in the previous 21 days may reduce public health risks for Canadians,” the public health agency said in a statement on Sunday.
It said the move is being put in place to “increase the effectiveness and sustainability of border measures that can safely process travellers arriving in Canada, including our returning humanitarian workers.”
The new travel ban will not apply to Canadian citizens or permanent residents, who must quarantine on arrival for 21 days if they’ve been to Congo, Uganda or South Sudan. That quarantine measure, which has been in effect since May 30, expires on Aug. 29.
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