Canada and The Bahamas have introduced temporary travel restrictions on travellers from the Democratic Republic of Congo, Uganda and South Sudan amid rising concern over the Ebola outbreak in Central and East Africa.
Canadian authorities said the measures took effect on Wednesday, May 27, 2026, and will remain in place for 90 days to curb possible importation of the virus.
Under the directive, Canada has suspended or restricted selected immigration and travel authorizations, including temporary resident visas, electronic travel authorizations and some permanent residency applications.
Authorities also said that, effective Friday, May 30, 2026, Canadian citizens, permanent residents and eligible foreign nationals who recently visited affected regions but show no symptoms will undergo a mandatory 21-day quarantine.
Symptomatic travelers will be isolated and referred for treatment.
The Public Health Agency of Canada described the measures as precautionary, aimed at reducing importation risks, while stressing that the current public health risk in Canada remains low.
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The Bahamas introduced similar restrictions with immediate effect on Wednesday, May 27, 2026, including enhanced screening and possible quarantine for exposed travelers. The measures will run for an initial 30 days, subject to review.
The actions follow broader international tightening of border controls as concern grows over the outbreak.
The World Health Organization (WHO), in May 2026, classified the Ebola outbreak in DR Congo and Uganda as a Public Health Emergency of International Concern, warning of possible wider transmission.
WHO cited rising test positivity rates, unexplained deaths and confirmed urban cases, and raised concern over the Bundibugyo strain, for which no approved vaccine or specific treatment exists.
The outbreak, first confirmed in Ituri Province in May 2026, has spread to Uganda, including cases reported in Kampala linked to cross-border movement.
In Nigeria, the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (NCDC) said no cases have been detected, adding that surveillance has been strengthened at points of entry and health facilities nationwide.