Map Shows Where Americans Told Not to Travel Amid Ebola Outbreak

Americans are being warned not to travel to parts of Africa as a deadly Ebola outbreak spreads across multiple countries.

The U.S. State Department has issued its highest-level warning, a Level 4: Do Not Travel, for several countries, while health officials ramp up screening and containment efforts.

President Donald Trump said he is "concerned" about the outbreak, which has already spread beyond its initial epicenter.

“I'm concerned about everything…but certainly am [about Ebola]. I think it's been confined right now to Africa, but it’s something that has had a breakout," Trump said.

Why It Matters

The outbreak has triggered a global public health emergency declaration and U.S. travel warnings for multiple countries. New entry restrictions and screenings have gone into effect for some travelers after an American medical worker contracted Ebola abroad.

Health officials still stress that the risk to the U.S. public remains low.

Is Ebola Curable?

Ebola is a severe and often deadly virus, but outcomes depend on early care. There is no universally available cure for the current strain, but treatment generally focuses on supportive care, hydration and managing complications.

"Ebola virus has no treatment. The current circulating strain has no vaccine to be used as a preventative," Nachman said. "All of our treatments revolve around support for individuals who are infected. Any current individuals in the U.S. infected with Ebola are from cases where it has been acquired outside of the U.S."

The mortality rate can range from 25 percent to 50 percent or higher, depending on the strain.

How Is Ebola Transmitted From Person to Person?

Ebola spreads through direct contact, not through the air.

Transmission occurs via:

• Blood or bodily fluids of infected individuals
• Contaminated surfaces or objects
• Contact with infected corpses

Experts maintain that transmission requires close physical contact and is not airborne like COVID-19 or the flu.

What Happens Next

• U.S. officials are continuing travel advisories, airport screenings and coordination with global health agencies
• International efforts include contact tracing and medical evacuations for exposed individuals
• The situation remains fluid, with experts warning the outbreak could expand further if not contained quickly

"Travel is broadening but also is accompanied by some risk," Nachman said. "While Ebola is in the news, many other illnesses can be acquired while traveling. Speaking with your family physician and investigating what are the illnesses circulating in that location is a sensible approach to travel."

2026 NEWSWEEK DIGITAL LLC.

This story was originally published May 19, 2026 at 2:56 PM.