Division of Global Migration Health

U.S. government division focused on global migration and health

The Division of Global Migration and Quarantine (DGMQ) is a division of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) in the United States. It is responsible for the prevention and control of infectious diseases that are associated with global migration and travel. The division plays a crucial role in protecting the health of the American public by monitoring and responding to health threats that cross international borders.

History

The Division of Global Migration and Quarantine has its roots in the Public Health Service (PHS), which was established in the late 19th century to prevent the spread of infectious diseases through maritime quarantine. Over the years, the division has evolved to address the complexities of modern global travel and migration.

Map of quarantine stations in 2020

Functions

The DGMQ is tasked with several key functions:

• Quarantine and Isolation: The division has the authority to detain, medically examine, or conditionally release individuals suspected of carrying communicable diseases. This is done through a network of quarantine stations located at major ports of entry across the United States.

• Travel Health: The DGMQ provides guidance and recommendations for travelers to prevent the spread of infectious diseases. This includes issuing travel notices and maintaining the "Yellow Book," a comprehensive resource for travel health information.

• Immigrant and Refugee Health: The division oversees the medical screening of immigrants and refugees entering the United States to ensure they do not pose a public health risk. This involves collaboration with international partners and domestic agencies.

• Global Health Security: The DGMQ works to strengthen global health security by building capacity in other countries to detect and respond to infectious disease threats. This includes training and technical assistance.

Quarantine Stations

The United States operates a network of quarantine stations at major ports of entry, including airports, seaports, and land border crossings. These stations are staffed by public health officers who are trained to identify and respond to potential public health threats. The map of quarantine stations provides a visual representation of their locations across the country.

Related pages

• Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
• Public Health Service
• Quarantine
• Global Health Security

Reorganization and functions of the Public Health Service report

See also

• World Health Organization
• International Health Regulations
• Epidemiology