Canada Imposes Self-Isolation for Travelers from Ebola Zones

The Canadian government has introduced a 21-day self-isolation requirement for travelers from regions affected by Ebola and temporarily halted immigration decisions from countries like Congo, South Sudan, and Uganda. These actions, described as precautionary, will be in effect until August 29.

Luc Brisebois from the Public Health Agency of Canada stated these measures demonstrate an 'abundance of caution.' Starting Saturday, symptomatic travelers will be directed to hospitals for assessments. Temporary isolation facilities will be available for those in need.

Officials have also announced a temporary pause, starting Wednesday, in finalizing immigration applications from affected regions. This suspension is set for 90 days but could be adjusted based on the outbreak's progression.

The outbreak, predominantly in northeastern Congo, involves a rare strain of Ebola, with more than 900 possible cases and exceeding 220 fatalities, according to WHO. Efforts to contain it continue, as WHO anticipates a prolonged battle with the virus.

(With inputs from agencies.)