Royal Air Maroc Implements US Travel Restrictions Amid Ebola Concerns
Casablanca, The Gulf Observer: Royal Air Maroc (RAM) has announced new travel restrictions for passengers traveling to the United States in line with enhanced public health measures introduced by U.S. authorities in response to the Ebola outbreak in parts of Africa.
In a statement issued this week, the Moroccan national carrier said passengers who have been present in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC), Uganda, or South Sudan within 21 days prior to their intended arrival in the United States will not be permitted to board Royal Air Maroc flights bound for the U.S.
The airline noted that certain exceptions may apply in accordance with U.S. government guidelines. Eligible travelers may be required to enter the United States through designated airports and undergo additional health screening procedures upon arrival.
Royal Air Maroc urged passengers affected by the measures to verify their travel eligibility before departure to avoid disruptions to their journeys.
The restrictions come amid growing international concern over Ebola outbreaks in several African countries. Health authorities in the Democratic Republic of the Congo have reported 210 confirmed cases and 17 confirmed deaths, in addition to 349 suspected cases. Uganda has confirmed nine cases, including one death and one probable case.
On May 18, the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) announced enhanced travel screening, entry restrictions, and other public health measures aimed at preventing the virus from entering the United States.
Under the CDC guidelines, affected travelers arriving from the DRC, Uganda, or South Sudan will be rerouted through designated U.S. airports, including Washington Dulles International Airport, Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport, George Bush Intercontinental Airport in Houston, and John F. Kennedy International Airport in New York. Airlines will work directly with eligible passengers to make the necessary travel arrangements.
Ebola is a severe viral disease that can cause high fever, organ damage, and internal and external bleeding. The virus is transmitted through direct contact with the bodily fluids of infected individuals or animals.
Meanwhile, African health leaders have agreed to strengthen regional coordination and surveillance efforts to contain the outbreak, warning that up to ten additional countries across the continent could face an elevated risk of infection if preventive measures are not intensified.
