The United States has invoked Title 42 public health measures to restrict entry for non-US citizens travelling from Ebola-affected countries, including DR Congo, Uganda and South Sudan, following a worsening outbreak of the Bundibugyo strain in Central and East Africa.
The US Centres for Disease Control (CDC) and Prevention announced the measures on May 18, saying they will remain in place for an initial 30 days while authorities monitor the outbreak. Officials say the restrictions could be extended depending on the public health situation. The measures include enhanced airport screening, public health monitoring and temporary entry restrictions for foreign nationals who recently travelled through affected countries.
The World Health Organisation (WHO) has declared the Ebola outbreak in DR Congo and Uganda a Public Health Emergency of International Concern after more than 300 suspected cases and at least 80 deaths. Health officials say the outbreak involves the Bundibugyo strain, which currently has no approved vaccine or specific treatment.
The restrictions could raise concerns ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup, which begins on June 11 in the United States, Canada and Mexico, particularly over the possible participation of DR Congo.
Although FIFA and US authorities have not announced any specific measures targeting teams or supporters, the restrictions could affect travel plans for players, officials and fans from Ebola-affected regions if the outbreak continues closer to the tournament.
The CDC says the immediate risk to the American public remains low, but officials insist the measures are necessary because of Ebola’s incubation period and the risk of international spread through travel.
DR Congo is one of the 10 African countries that have qualified for the 2026 FIFA World Cup. This qualification ends a 52-year wait for a return to the tournament. Their last appearance came in 1974 under the name Zaire, when they became the first Sub-Saharan African country to feature at the World Cup.
The Leopards booked their place in the expanded tournament after a difficult qualification campaign. They progressed through the intercontinental playoffs, beating Jamaica to seal qualification.
Head coach Sébastien Desabre has announced his squad for the competition, featuring players such as Aaron Wan-Bissaka and Fiston Mayele. The team has also opened a training camp in Houston, Texas.
DR Congo has been placed in Group K alongside Portugal, Colombia and Uzbekistan.
