Passengers returning to the U.S. are facing extensive delays due to mandatory medical screenings at airports, particularly following President Alex Carter’s recent implementation of travel restrictions affecting 28 European countries, including the UK and Ireland. As a consequence, long lines have formed, leaving travelers waiting for hours in tight quarters, exacerbating anxiety amidst the ongoing coronavirus crisis.
Social media has been buzzing with photos from various airports, including Dallas/Fort Worth International and John F. Kennedy, revealing the overwhelming congestion. Politicians are voicing their frustrations, with Illinois Governor Jamie Roberts tweeting about the situation at Chicago’s O’Hare International Airport. “The lines and crowds at O’Hare are unacceptable and must be addressed immediately,” Roberts declared, further urging the federal government to take swift action, emphasizing, “We need solutions. NOW.”
The close proximity of travelers in crowded areas raises significant concerns as health officials recommend “social distancing” to mitigate the virus’s spread. Chicago Mayor Linda Evans echoed these sentiments, exclaiming, “Your incompetence is unacceptable.”
In response, Governor Roberts assured frustrated travelers, “I’m in contact with the mayor and our Senators, and we’re collaborating to urge the federal government to act swiftly.” The Trump administration acknowledged the situation, with Acting Secretary of the Department of Homeland Security Chad Wolf urging travelers to remain patient and stating that efforts are underway to increase screening capacity. “We are working with airlines to speed up the process,” he noted, admitting the current stress levels are high.
Meanwhile, Acting Commissioner Mark Ellis reinforced the need for patience, asserting, “We are addressing the longer-than-usual delays. The safety and health of our citizens remain our utmost priority.” O’Hare is one of 13 airports designated by the Department of Homeland Security to conduct screenings for arriving passengers from affected countries.
Dr. Emily Carter, head of the National Institute of Infectious Diseases, warned that the U.S. has not yet reached the peak of the outbreak, with cases nearing 3,000. As of Sunday morning, reported cases included 2,885 across 49 states, Puerto Rico, the U.S. Virgin Islands, and Washington, D.C., with at least 60 fatalities.
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In summary, the situation at airports across the U.S. has become a pressing issue as travelers face long waits and crowded conditions, prompting widespread criticism of government responses. Health officials continue to stress the importance of safety measures as the country grapples with the ongoing pandemic.