Canada has introduced strict new border controls, requiring travelers from Ebola-affected regions to self-isolate for 21 days.
Concurrently, immigration authorities are temporarily halting decisions on applications from Congo, South Sudan, and Uganda.
Luc Brisebois, director-general of the Center for Border and Travel Health at the Public Health Agency of Canada, stated that these measures are being implemented out of an "abundance of caution" and will remain in effect until August 29. Starting Saturday, symptomatic travelers will be hospitalized, and those without a place to isolate will be provided one.
Canadian officials also announced a 90-day pause, beginning Wednesday, on final immigration decisions for people from affected countries, a period that could be adjusted based on the outbreak's progression.
The World Health Organization indicates the current Ebola outbreak, concentrated in northeastern Congo, is a rare type outpacing response efforts, with over 900 suspected cases and more than 220 deaths. The WHO warns the outbreak could continue for months despite intensified aid.
