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CHARLOTTE, NC — Taking off at an airport is not exactly routine with Ebola concerns landing as far as Charlotte.
“I’m heading to Houston, Texas. Close enough right? So yes, it has been a thought of mine as well as my family,” said Shanita Crowell.
She wasn’t along in the Charlotte-Douglas International Airport Wednesday.
Christ Contreras flew to the Queen City from Texas where Ebola killed Eric Duncan. Two of his nurses are now fighting it.
“It’s something that crosses my mind quite often,” said Contreras.
The World Health Organization predicts Ebola cases in West Africa to spread to 10,000 people a week by November.
The Center for Disease Control has expanded health screenings to five major airports in the U.S.
Congressman Robert Pittenger wants the CDC to expand health screenings to hubs like Charlotte.
“Five airports is a limited number,” said Pittenger. “That’s a drop in the pan. We’re, frankly, going to have to have more screenings.”
He and 25 other House members across party lines wrote the President.
“Let’s stop it as best we can at the origin,” said Pittenger.
He says since travelers wouldn’t immediately show symptoms like fever, the U.S. should restrict flights from West Africa.
“There’s been some thoughtful action taken by others,” said Pittenger.
African nations have slowed travel from Ebola stricken areas as well as British Airways. The United Nations says that could stop critical medical workers and supplies from reaching those who need it most.
“We have humanitarian needs, and certainly there could be approved flights made,” added Pittenger.
Until the CDC expands efforts, the airport says it won’t screen temperatures or health history in Charlotte. A spokesperson wrote:
“Although Charlotte Douglas International Airport is not a direct gateway airport for flights to and from the primary affected countries, we recognize the heightened attention to Ebola. We have been aggressive in engaging federal and local health officials and continue to conduct training and preparedness. CLT is uniquely positioned with both Medic and Fire responders on-site who are highly trained in infectious disease protocols. “
