BEIJING - China's quarantine authority has ordered strengthened inspections at customs to prevent the deadly Ebola virus from entering the country.

The General Administration of Quality Supervision, Inspection and Quarantine said it will implement stricter inspections on inbound airlines from regions affected by Ebola, and step up sanitary measures on incoming vehicles and goods.

China will also suspend imports of some special goods and animal products, while raising awareness among travelers bound for those regions.

Ebola, which spreads through mucous and other body fluid or secretions such as stool, urine, saliva and semen of infected people, is believed to be very difficult to control.

Four western African countries - Guinea, Liberia, Nigeria and Sierra Leone - have reported 729 deaths from Ebola with 1,323 infected between the start of March and the end of July.

Second Ebola patient headed to US; NY tests possible victim