Health Ministry Proposes Travel Restrictions Amid Ebola Concerns

Published
Ministry of Health Officials at a press conference on Friday

The Government of Antigua and Barbuda is preparing to introduce temporary travel restrictions for persons arriving from Ebola outbreak regions as health officials intensify preparedness measures in response to the evolving situation in parts of Africa.

Health Minister Michael Joseph made the disclosure during a press conference on Friday, confirming that Cabinet will soon receive proposals aimed at reducing potential risks associated with the deadly virus.

According to the minister, the proposed measures would restrict entry into Antigua and Barbuda for individuals who have been present in designated Ebola outbreak areas within 45 days prior to travel.

Officials also confirmed that the Ministry of Health is strengthening surveillance at ports of entry, upgrading screening procedures, and preparing to reinstall infrared thermal camera systems at V.C. Bird International Airport.

The ministry stressed that there are currently no suspected or confirmed Ebola cases in Antigua and Barbuda but said preparedness remains essential as international travel increases.

This story was first published by Antigua News on : antigua.news/2026/05/22/health-ministry-proposes-travel-restrictions-amid-ebola-concerns. © 2026 Antigua News. Republication without permission is not allowed.

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Shermain Bique-Charles

About the author

Shermain Bique-Charles is an accomplished journalist with over 24 years of dynamic experience in the industry. Renowned for her exceptional storytelling and investigative skills, she has garnered numerous awards that highlight her commitment to journalistic integrity and excellence. Her work not only informs but also inspires, making her a respected voice in the field.

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Comments (8)

  • Protect us May 22, 2026, 6:31 PM

    Just halt that Air Peace flight idea for now please
    Reply
  • Precautions first May 22, 2026, 6:59 PM

    Stop all flights from Africa until this matter slows down.
    Reply
  • Donna May 22, 2026, 10:45 PM

    That flight ain’t stopping nor temporary cancel once Gassy is the PM. Isn’t the PM on that AirPeace flight, too? Gassy has worked hard in getting that straight flight route open to Antigua from the motherland, Africa.
    I agreed that flight out of Africa needs to be temporary cancelled until we have all tue preventative measures in place.
    Reply
  • Apex Jones May 22, 2026, 11:18 PM

    That’s the smartest thing to do. One case will be one too many
    Reply
    • Khofie May 23, 2026, 7:53 AM

      I hope this measire helps at least because these diseases spread like wild fire amoung humans
      Reply
  • PM May 23, 2026, 5:10 PM

    Why are we always waiting for the thing to happen before we do something nuh
    Reply
  • Informed citizen May 24, 2026, 2:52 PM

    We need the tourist dollar but at what cost. I support this
    Reply
  • Lena May 24, 2026, 3:13 PM

    Yep its best we do that and wait to see what happens
    Reply

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