Canada has implemented temporary travel restrictions and quarantine measures for visitors from Ebola-affected countries, citing precautionary measures ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup . the move, however, contradicts the World Health Organization's (WHO) recommendation against travel restrictions.

The 90-Day Visa Pause and 21-Day Quarantine

Effective Wednesday, Canada paused final decisions on immigration and travel applications for people from the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), Uganda , and South Sudan for 90 days. Additionally, a mandatory 21-day self-isolation period was announced for anyone who has traveled to these countries, taking effect on Saturday and lasting until August 29.

WHO's Stance on Travel Restrictions

The WHO advises against any restrictions on travel and trade to DRC and Uganda based on available information for the current outbreak. The organization argues that such measures are not based on science and can comprommise local economies and response operations .

The Debate Among Experts

Some infectious disease experts in Canada side with the WHO, stating that travel restrictions are not an effective way to prevent Ebola from entering the country. They argue that Ebola is less contagious than other diseases like COVID-19 and is not transmitted until symptoms appear. Canada has never had an Ebola case.

Potential Impact on Outbreak Management

Dr. Allison McGeer, an infectious diseases specialist at Mount Sinai Hospital in Toronto, has already seen how the measures could interfere with Canada helping combat the Ebola outbreak on the ground in DRC. she believes the science does not support the broad travel restrictions and suggests that specific travel restrictions based on the affected areas could be more justified.