The Department of Justice's (DOJ) Civil Rights Division (the division) has issued "nondiscrimination principles," public guidance and a reference guide to assist federal, state and local governments’ in their response to the Ebola virus. While geared towards government and related entities, the principles, guidance and reference guide also provide information applicable to private sector employers.

The division's nondiscrimination principles discuss unlawful discrimination and retaliation directed at people who are or are perceived to be from an African country or of African descent, or against people who have the Ebola virus or are perceived as having the virus.

The division’s reference guide provides illustrative examples and details several laws that may apply during an Ebola response, including employment laws such as the ADA, Title VII and Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act.

For more information on Ebola, see Expert Q&A: What Employers Need to Know about Ebola.