US considering stricter airport security measures for Ebola

Ebola Outbreak

The U.S. government officials said they are considering more screening of travelers arriving from West Africa.

Airline passengers arriving from Liberia, Sierra Leone, and Guinea need to have their temperatures taken before they’re allowed to board flights and may get extra screening at major U.S. airports. Airline crews have also been told to keep an eye out for sick passengers. A flight ban from affected countries has been ruled out as it would hamper the flow of emergency personnel into the region. CCTV America’s Bianca Davie reports on the American efforts.

The Obama administration said it’s looking at ways to further beef up security measures. It wasn’t immediately clear exactly how or when the changes might happen but officials said a ban would not be included. European nations haven’t issued a blanket ban either.

“This is an issue about our safety, it is also an issue with respect to the political stability and economic stability of this region and so it is very important for us to make sure that we are treating this the same way that we would treat any other significant national security threat,” said President Barack Obama.

Industry experts say if an Ebola-effected passenger boards a flight and infects other travelers, the airline could be held financially responsible. Under international travel rules, passengers affected by accidents, including disease, are entitled to a payout of at least $160,000 if they file complaints against their airline.

Meanwhile, governments around the world said the best way to fight the spread of Ebola is stopping it at its source. So far, more than $325 million has been sent to West Africa to help fight the virus.

For more on the fight against Ebola, CCTV America talked with Dr. Joel Selanikio, the CEO and co-founder of Magpi.