CDC Invokes Title 42 Over Ebola, Restricting Entry for Travelers from Congo, Uganda, and South Sudan

Here's a story that matters if you travel internationally — or know someone who does. The U.S. government just pulled a significant public health lever in response to a fast-moving Ebola outbreak in Africa.

On May 18, 2026, the Trump administration invoked Title 42 — that's a public health law that gives the government authority to restrict entry into the U.S. during outbreaks of communicable diseases — to block travelers who've recently been in three African countries: the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), Uganda, and South Sudan. If you were in any of those countries in the last 21 days and you're not a U.S. citizen, you're not getting in.

The Ebola outbreak driving this decision is serious. There are more than 600 suspected cases and at least 160 deaths across the DRC and Uganda. South Sudan was included in the order not because of confirmed cases there, but because of its geographic proximity to the two affected countries — basically, officials are trying to get ahead of potential spread before it starts.

The strain in question is the Bundibugyo ebolavirus — one of the six known Ebola virus species, and notably different from the more well-known Zaire strain that caused the devastating 2014-2016 West African outbreak. The 21-day window in the travel restrictions matches the maximum known incubation period of the virus — meaning someone could be infected and not show symptoms for up to three weeks.

Here's the part that may surprise you: this order doesn't just apply to tourists or foreign nationals. In an updated statement just days after the initial order, the CDC confirmed the restrictions now also cover green card holders — lawful permanent residents — who have been in those countries within the last 21 days. That's a notable expansion, since green card holders typically have near-automatic re-entry rights.

One high-profile case is already in the news. Dr. Peter Stafford, an American physician working with the international Christian aid organization Serge at a hospital in the DRC, tested positive for Ebola. He's currently hospitalized in Germany, and his condition has improved. His wife, Dr. Rebekah Stafford, is asymptomatic but being monitored. Their four children are also being watched.

If you're flying internationally right now, here's what the ground looks like at U.S. airports: Atlanta, Houston, and Dulles (outside Washington, D.C.) have been designated as the entry points for travelers coming from the three affected countries. You'll be escorted to a screening area, asked about your travel history and symptoms, and have your temperature taken. If you're symptom-free, you'll get health guidance and be sent on your way — but your contact information will be shared with local health departments for follow-up monitoring. If you show symptoms, you'll be taken to a hospital and isolated for testing.

The order is in effect for 30 days, with a comment period open for the public to weigh in.