Travelers arriving in New York City through John F. Kennedy International Airport will soon face additional health screening measures tied to ongoing Ebola concerns in parts of Africa.

According to new federal guidance, JFK is now one of four airports in the United States selected to carry out enhanced Ebola screenings for passengers entering the country after recent travel to specific African nations.

The updated procedures apply to U.S. citizens and travelers who have visited the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), Uganda, or South Sudan within 21 days of their arrival in America.

The new screening process officially begins Thursday, May 29.

Airports Participating in the Screening Program

Alongside JFK Airport in New York, the following airports are also conducting enhanced health checks:

• Washington Dulles International Airport

• Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport

• George Bush Intercontinental Airport in Houston

Federal officials say the move is intended as a precautionary measure during the ongoing Ebola outbreak in Central and East Africa.

In a statement issued by the Department of Homeland Security, authorities explained that the temporary measures are intended to protect public health and strengthen monitoring of travelers entering the United States from affected regions.

What Travelers Should Expect

Passengers who recently traveled through the DRC, Uganda, or South Sudan will be directed to designated screening areas after landing in the U.S.

During the process, travelers may be asked questions about:

• Their recent travel history

• Possible exposure risks

• Any symptoms linked to Ebola

Health officials from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) will also check temperatures and visually assess passengers for signs of illness.

Travelers who show no symptoms will receive guidance on monitoring their health after arrival and will still be permitted to continue to their final destinations.

In addition, contact information may be shared with local and state health departments for follow-up monitoring if necessary.

What Happens if Someone Shows Symptoms?

If a traveler displays symptoms such as fever or signs consistent with Ebola, CDC teams will carry out additional medical evaluations.

Should officials identify a suspected case, health authorities will begin standard contact tracing procedures to notify passengers who may have been exposed during travel.

At this time, the CDC reports no confirmed, probable, or suspected Ebola cases in the United States.

While the screenings may add extra steps for some international travelers, officials emphasize that the measures are preventive and aimed at maintaining public safety.