Mexican airlines restrict travellers from Ebola-hit Central African countries

Three Mexican airlines have announced temporary travel restrictions for passengers arriving from parts of Central Africa following the region’s ongoing Ebola outbreak, less than two weeks before the start of the FIFA World Cup.

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In separate statements on Friday, May 29, Aeromexico, Viva and Volaris said travellers who have recently been in affected countries would face restrictions on flights into Mexico. “Entry into Mexico by air is restricted for travellers who have stayed in Uganda, the Democratic Republic of the Congo, or South Sudan within the last 21 days,” Aeromexico said on social media.

Viva and Volaris announced similar measures, which will remain in effect for 60 days. The restrictions come as Mexico prepares to host World Cup matches alongside United States and Canada. The tournament is scheduled to begin on June 11 with an opening match in Mexico City between Mexico and South Africa.

The Democratic Republic of the Congo, which is currently dealing with the outbreak, has qualified for the tournament and is due to play first-round matches in the United States and Mexico. The Congolese national team has reportedly been training in Belgium and plans to use Houston, Texas, as its base during the competition.

According to the World Health Organization, the outbreak has resulted in 17 confirmed deaths and 223 suspected deaths since May 15, with 125 confirmed cases and more than 900 suspected cases recorded in the DRC. Health authorities have said the current outbreak is linked to the Bundibugyo strain of Ebola, for which no approved vaccine or treatment currently exists.