Canada is introducing new border and immigration rules to help stop Ebola from spreading into the country as cases rise in the Democratic Republic of the Congo, Uganda, and South Sudan.
Starting May 30, travellers who have recently been in those countries will still be allowed to enter Canada, but they must complete a health check when they arrive and self-isolate for 21 days. Anyone showing symptoms will be sent to a hospital for further testing.
The federal government says the risk to Canadians is currently low and that no Ebola cases linked to travel have been reported in Canada.
Immigration officials are also pausing final decisions on some visa, study permit, work permit, and permanent residence applications from the three affected countries for 90 days. Officials said applications will still be processed, but no final approvals will be made during that time.
Health Minister Marjorie Michel said the measures are being taken as a precaution and are meant to protect Canadians, especially with large international events like the FIFA World Cup approaching.
According to the World Health Organization, Ebola is a rare but serious disease that spreads through direct contact and can often be deadly. Canada is also sending scientific support to help health officials in the affected region.
