11views
Three major Mexican airlines have imposed temporary travel restrictions on passengers arriving from parts of Central Africa as concerns grow over a deadly Ebola outbreak in the region, just days before the start of the World Cup.
Aeromexico, Mexico’s largest airline, announced on Friday that travellers who have been in Uganda, the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC), or South Sudan within the previous 21 days will face restrictions on entry into Mexico by air.
The measure comes as Mexico prepares to host thousands of football fans and athletes for the World Cup, which begins on June 11 and is being jointly staged by Mexico, the United States and Canada.
Two other carriers, Viva and Volaris, also introduced similar restrictions, saying the measures will remain in force for 60 days.
The move has drawn attention because the Democratic Republic of the Congo, one of the countries affected by the outbreak, has qualified for the tournament and is expected to play first-round matches in both Mexico and the United States.
The Congolese national team is currently training in Belgium and is expected to use Houston, Texas, as its tournament base during the competition.
Mexico will host the opening match of the World Cup in Mexico City, where the host nation is scheduled to face South Africa.
Health concerns have intensified following reports from the World Health Organisation (WHO), which said the DRC is battling an outbreak of the Bundibugyo strain of Ebola.
According to WHO data, the outbreak has resulted in 17 confirmed deaths and 223 suspected deaths since May 15. The agency has also recorded 125 confirmed cases and more than 900 suspected infections.
Medical experts have expressed concern because there is currently no approved vaccine or specific treatment for the Bundibugyo strain responsible for the outbreak.
The travel measures are part of broader efforts to protect public health as North America prepares to welcome millions of visitors for one of the world’s biggest sporting events.
add a comment
