Restrictions to travellers from Ebola-affected countries

Statement attributable to the Spokesman for the Secretary-General on restrictions applied to travellers from Ebola-affected countries

27.October.2014 · Posted in APO-OPA

NEW YORK, October 27, 2014/African Press Organization (APO)/ — The Secretary-General is concerned by the recent restrictions put in place in several countries and localities applying to people who have travelled to the main Ebola-affected countries.

He believes that these restrictions have put particular pressure on health care workers and those who have been on the frontline of the Ebola response. Returning health workers are exceptional people who are giving of themselves for humanity. They should not be subjected to restrictions that are not based on science. Those who develop infections should be supported, not stigmatized.

The Secretary-General reiterates that the best way for any country to protect itself from Ebola is to stop the outbreak at its source in West Africa. This requires considerable international health care worker support and in return for this support, we have an obligation to look after them.

ENDS

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