CDC requires Ebola screening form for all US-bound flyers

Summarised from 2 outlets · Updated 30 Oct, 07:26 · Archive

The CDC will require all passengers on international flights to the US to confirm they have not been in the Democratic Republic of the Congo in the previous 21 days, starting 3 November.

From 3 November, all passengers on international flights to the United States will have to confirm they have not been in the Democratic Republic of the Congo during the previous 21 days, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. The requirement applies to everyone flying into or connecting through the US, including American citizens, green card holders and airline crew members. Travellers will have to complete a paper or digital statement before boarding, regardless of whether they have visited the DRC. Airlines must collect and retain the forms for at least 42 days after the flight arrives in the US.

Airlines for America, which represents major carriers including American, Delta, Southwest, United and JetBlue, is asking the CDC to reconsider the requirement and provide more time to prepare. The group said it supports the CDC's public health goals but argued that the new requirement is too broad and is being introduced too quickly. The group asked for a 'more proportionate and measured US response' focused more closely on affected areas and travellers who have recently been there.

In an October 26 letter, Airlines for America requested that the start date be delayed, stating that 'changes to check-in systems, digital signatures, station procedures and training cannot readily be completed in the allotted time'.

How it is being reported

• Deadly disease sparks new CDC rule for US-bound flyers as major airlines seek delayAirlines urge CDC to delay sweeping new screening regulation affecting millions of Americans.New York Post · 30 Oct, 07:10
• Deadly disease sparks new CDC rule for US-bound flyers as major airlines seek delayU.S. and international airlines are urging the CDC to delay its Nov. 3 Ebola travel form requirement affecting all U.S.-bound passengers. An infectious disease expert shares insights.Fox News · 29 Oct, 22:16

In this story: Centers for Disease Control and Prevention · Airlines for America · Democratic Republic of the Congo · American · Delta · Southwest · United · JetBlue

This summary was written by AI from the headlines and standfirsts above, and states as fact only what at least two outlets report. How we use AI · Report a problem · Corrections log