Ebola a world away, but on the minds of many in Seattle


SEATTLE -- A recent study shows four out of 10 Americans fear an Ebola outbreak in the U.S., putting air travel is under the microscope as the Centers for Disease Control tries to keep travelers from getting sick.

Alicia Pera is taking a pilgrimage to Rome. She was in SeaTac recently, describing her excitement. 

"I am so excited. I cannot wait. I`ve been looking forward to it for a long time," Pera said.

But the Ebola outbreak is not far from her mind. She has a weakened immune system and has decided to wear a mask the entire flight,even though, her chances of contracting the deadly virus are very low.

The Centers for Disease Control isn't taking any chances. The agency has offices inside every international airport in the country, including Seatac. If a passenger aboard a plane is exhibiting symptoms of Ebola, the airline is charged with informing the CDC before the plan lands.

Isolation rooms are used in airports to keep other travelers from exposure.

Airlines are the eyes and ears of the CDC. They can deny an ill passenger at the gate before they board the plane. Airline staff members have been taught to treat all bodily fluids as if they're infectious.

Still travelers we spoke with say the Ebola outbreak is certainly something to think about.

Walt Freed said, "We’ve taken every precaution we can do with shots and pills to not get sick. But yea, that’s always in the back of our mind."