Anchorage Quarantine Station

Jurisdiction

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) operates a quarantine station in Anchorage. The station’s jurisdiction covers the international air, land, and sea ports of Alaska—a vast area larger than Texas, California, and Montana combined.

Quarantine Station Activities

• Respond to reports of illness or deaths on airplanes, maritime vessels, and land border crossings to ensure appropriate actions are taken.
• Conduct emergency preparedness planning, training, and exercises involving port and community partners, including hospitals, local health institutions, and law enforcement.
• Screen and enforce entry requirements for animals, etiologic agents, and vectors deemed to be of public health significance.
• Review medical records of migrants who will reside permanently in the United States. Notify state and local health departments of any migrants with specific medical conditions.
• Provide travelers with essential health information.

Unique Characteristics of Alaska

Alaska is located 9.5 hours from 90% of the world, borders with Canada, and is 55 miles from Russia. Alaska has a larger coastline than that of the continental United States. Native Tribal islands are located on international borders. Alaska is a landing zone for international MEDEVACs, emergencies, diversions, and corporate aviation traveling to and from the Far East. As northern sea ice melts, Alaska’s shipping market has seen growing international cruise and cargo maritime activity.

Annual Ports of Entry Statistics