The United States has introduced new health measures, including airport screening, after concerns over the spread of Ebola linked to parts of Africa.

The steps were announced by the US health authorities as cases rise in the Democratic Republic of Congo and neighbouring countries. Officials say the move is aimed at limiting possible importation of the virus through travel.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention says travellers coming from affected regions will now face additional checks. Some visa services have also been paused for people linked to the affected areas.

A health official working on Ebola response said one US worker in the Democratic Republic of Congo tested positive after exposure linked to their work. The person has shown symptoms and is being moved for treatment in Europe.

Authorities also say several other people are being moved for medical monitoring after possible exposure.

The World Health Organization has declared the outbreak a global health concern. It reports dozens of deaths and hundreds of suspected cases in the region, with most cases affecting adults in their twenties and thirties.

US officials say the risk to people in the country remains low. They also say response teams are being sent to support tracking and testing in affected areas.

The US government has also set aside funding to support response efforts in countries dealing with the outbreak. (AriseNews TV)