Three Mexican airlines announced temporary travel restrictions on Friday for passengers arriving from several Central African countries affected by an Ebola outbreak, as Mexico prepares to host matches during the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
Aeromexico, the country's largest carrier, said entry into Mexico by air will be restricted for travelers who have been in Uganda, the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) or South Sudan within the previous 21 days. Budget airlines Viva and Volaris introduced similar measures, which will remain in effect for 60 days.
The DRC national team has qualified for the tournament and is scheduled to play first-round matches in both Mexico and the United States.
According to the World Health Organization (WHO), the outbreak has resulted in 17 confirmed deaths and 223 suspected deaths since May 15. Health officials have reported 125 confirmed Ebola cases and over 900 suspected cases across affected areas.
The current outbreak is linked to the Bundibugyo strain of the Ebola virus, for which no approved vaccine or specific treatment is currently available.
Mexico, the United States and Canada are co-hosting the 2026 FIFA World Cup, with the tournament set to begin on June 11. The opening match will be played in Mexico City between Mexico and South Africa.
The Congolese national team has been training in Belgium and is expected to establish its tournament base in Houston, Texas, during the competition.