US curbs on travelers exposed to deadly viruses may infringe rights and deter volunteers
Summary
The US government is placing strict travel rules on Americans exposed to Ebola and hantavirus, sending some to hospitals in Germany and the Czech Republic instead of bringing them home. Experts warn these rules might violate legal rights and discourage volunteers from helping in future health emergencies.Key Facts
- The US is not bringing home an American doctor sick with Ebola and six others exposed to the virus; they are being treated in Germany and the Czech Republic.
- These locations were chosen quickly due to the urgent need to move patients, despite Czechia having limited experience with treating such viruses.
- The White House reportedly opposed allowing at-risk Americans to return home during this outbreak.
- US law guarantees citizens and green card holders the right to return to the country, and travel restrictions formally don’t apply to US citizens.
- Quarantine rules were also applied to passengers exposed to Andes virus (a hantavirus) from the ship MV Hondius, with some forced to stay in Nebraska facilities rather than at home.
- Experts warn that discouraging Americans from returning or volunteering to help may reduce vital support for fighting outbreaks internationally.
- The Ebola patient sent to Germany is in stable condition and others are asymptomatic but moved to ensure proper care if needed.
- The US has advanced biocontainment and medical facilities that are well-funded for treating infectious diseases.
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