Dominican Republic strengthens airport health controls to prevent Ebola entry

Santo Domingo.- The Dominican Republic’s Civil Aviation Board (JAC) has approved new mandatory health surveillance measures aimed at preventing the entry of Ebola and other high-risk infectious diseases through international air travel. The decision, adopted through Resolution 144-2026, follows directives issued by the Ministry of Public Health to strengthen epidemiological monitoring at airports, ports, and border crossings.

Under the new rules, airlines operating flights to the Dominican Republic must deny boarding to passengers or crew members identified by health authorities as confirmed, probable, or suspected Ebola cases, as well as individuals who may have been exposed to the virus in affected areas. Air carriers are also required to cooperate with health and airport security authorities in implementing enhanced screening procedures and immediately report any traveler showing symptoms during a flight.

Authorities clarified that the measures do not prohibit Dominican citizens from returning to the country. However, returning nationals may be subject to health evaluations, quarantine, isolation, or other protocols established by the Ministry of Public Health. The measures were adopted after international health alerts related to the current Ebola outbreak and may be adjusted as global epidemiological conditions evolve.