Today, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) modified protocols for travelers from Liberia to the United States, stipulating that those currently under active or direct active monitoring for Ebola Virus Disease (EVD) by local health departments (LHDs) no longer need monitoring. For California, the protocol for Liberian travelers is spelled out in the attached updated guidance from the California Department of Public Health (CDPHⁱ). The guidance provides LHDs with important elements of an Ebola plan, changes in notifications and monitoring of Liberian travelers, and outlines the responsibilities of CDPH and the Emergency Medical Services Authority (EMSA) in assisting LHDs.

It is important to note that while travelers from Liberia are considered to have extremely low risk of developing EVD, the CDC states there is not zero risk. The CDC recommends that, as indicated by clinical judgment, no EVD-specific precautions are needed, and travelers may be seen by a regular health care provider. As with any patient presenting with symptoms, health care providers should implement appropriate infection control procedures depending on the travel history and clinical presentation of travelers returning from Liberia. Hospitals and health care providers should assess travel history for any possible infectious disease exposures, including MERS-CoV and malaria.

CDPH has scheduled a conference call for health care providers June 18 at 1 pm. To participate, call (800) 857-6025 and enter passcode 9680670.