WASHINGTON — The Trump administration is urging European countries to mirror U.S.travel restrictions implemented in response to Ebola as the U.S.
prepares to host the largest-ever World Cup amid growing concerns about the spread of the disease, according to a State Department cable reviewed by NBC News.Subscribe to read this story ad-free Get unlimited access to ad-free articles and exclusive content.As global health officials warn the Ebola outbreak is outpacing the international response, the U.S.warned European countries this week that a failure to adopt the administration’s precautions may have consequences, according to the cable issued on Monday.
The State Department declined to provide further details on what actions the U.S.might take.The U.S.
is also speaking with countries in the Middle East about their measures to prevent Ebola’s spread, according to a U.S.official.A State Department spokesperson confirmed that diplomatic officials are in touch with a number of countries around the world “to coordinate our approach to protect our citizens, including the millions of visitors, fans, athletes and tourists expected during the FIFA World Cup.”“The Trump administration is protecting our nation and its citizens by upholding the highest standards of national security and public health,” the spokesperson said, adding that “we do not comment on private diplomatic conversations.”The Ebola outbreak in central Africa has complicated the already herculean task of preparing for a sprawling global event like the World Cup.
Beginning on June 11, teams from 48 countries will be competing across the U.S., Canada and Mexico.FIFA has sold more than 6 million tickets to fans traveling from across the world.
The teams and the fans will also be working their way through North America to attend matches in 16 cities — 11 in the U.S.alone — and the competition will last until the final match in New Jersey, outside of New York City.“It’s an enormou...