Flying to the US from abroad? You'll need to state you haven't been to Congo, CDC says
Published in Travel Tips
Beginning Tuesday night, all travelers arriving at United States airports from overseas will face a new requirement.
They’ll need to write and provide a statement saying they’ve not spent time in the Democratic Republic of Congo during the prior 21 days, including for transit or layovers.
The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, which issued the guidelines, said they would take effect starting 11:59 p.m. Nov. 3. The move is part of U.S. public health prevention protocols response to the Ebola virus in the Congo.
While “the overall risk to the American public and travelers remains low,” the CDC wrote, the statement from travelers is required “as a public health measure intended to reduce the risk of Ebola being introduced into the United States through air travel.”
The CDC says that willfully providing false or misleading information may lead to criminal fines and imprisonment.
The requirement applies to all people boarding a flight to the U.S. from any foreign country, including U.S. citizens, U.S. nationals and Green Card holders, or lawful permanent residents.
Travelers will need to present proof of completion at boarding, either through the digital form or a signed paper declaration. If they fail to do so, they won’t be allowed to board, Colombian airline Avianca said.
The CDC added that those who fail to complete the form will be barred from boarding any airline headed to the U.S. The only exception is those given an exemption issued by the U.S. government.
People who have been to the Congo will have to wait somewhere outside the U.S. for 21 full days before returning. The 21-day period reflects the virus’ maximum incubation period, the time between exposure and symptoms starting, the CDC said.
Avianca recommends travelers complete the statement in advance. Each passenger must complete one form.
Travelers who fail to present the statement at the time of boarding will not be permitted to board their flight, Avianca said.
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