100219 – World Status Report

When traveling on behalf of UT Dallas, set up your institutional safety net and prepare for an emergency as a standard step of all your travels.  Find more information in the Traveler Best Practices webpage.

The risk information in this report is retrieved from U.S. Department of State, the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the World Health Organization, and other professional sources as listed in the post. It provides general guidance for UT Dallas travelers.

Please note the revision date (mmddyy) of this report, printed on the title of the post, and go to the direct sources listed for the most up-to-date information.  The information in this report may change without prior notice.

Avoid Nonessential Travel

Conflict and Terrorism

• Cote d’Ivore – GC.CA – Avoid non essential travel to the Cavally, Guémon, San Pedro and Tonkpi regions within 50 km of the border with Liberia, due to crime, insecurity and recurrent inter community conflicts.  Region bordering Liberia. Rogue security forces and other armed groups engage in banditry and extortion in the western regions. Clashes between armed groups and the security forces have taken place in the area. Regions bordering Mali and Burkina Faso. There is a heightened risk of terrorist activity due to the presence of armed groups and militias in the northern border areas. Clashes between armed groups and security forces could take place in the area.
• Sudan – U.S. Department of State – Reconsider travel to Sudan due to crime, terrorism, civil unrest, kidnapping, and armed conflict.  Crime, such as kidnapping, armed robbery, home invasion, and carjacking can occur.  Members of known terrorist groups continue to be in Sudan and could pose a threat to Western interests.

Natural Disasters and Climate

• Azores – GC.CA – Avoid non essential travel to the islands of Flores, Corvo, Faial, Pico, Sao Jorge, Graciosa and Terceira due to hurricane Lorenzo.  The storm is likely to bring excessive rainfall and violent winds. It may cause flash flooding and landslides and could severely disrupt the following essential services: transportation, power distribution, water and food supply, telecommunications networks, emergency services, medical care. If you are in the affected area: exercise caution, monitor local news and weather reports, follow the instructions of local authorities.
• Bahamas – GOV.UK – The Foreign and Commonwealth Office (FCO) advise against all but essential travel to Grand Bahama and the Abaco Islands. However, travel to other islands of The Bahamas is unaffected.

Take Enhanced Precautions

Conflict and Terrorism

• Bolivia – GC.CA – Civil strikes have been taking place in Uyuni since the end of August 2019. The situation has improved, but it remains volatile. Protests often occur with little or no notice, resulting in significant disruptions to the following services: transportation, shops, restaurants, hotels, banks and ATMs. When protests happen, you may have difficulty travelling to the Uyuni salt flats. If you intend to visit Uyuni: monitor local media for information on ongoing demonstrations; contact your travel agent or tour operator to determine if the situation could disrupt your travel; be prepared to change your travel plans; follow the instructions of local authorities.
• Brazil – GC.CA – Several attacks have occurred in Ceará state since September 20, 2019. Targets include: governmental and private buildings; buses and other vehicles; a communication tower. The Ceará state is considered one of the most violent states in Brazil. If you intend to visit Fortaleza or Jericoacara: make sure to stay in a reliable hotel located in a safe neighborhood; use a reliable taxi company or ride hailing app rather than a bus to reach your destination; avoid walking alone after dark; avoid showing signs of affluence; move away quickly if you notice any sight of violence or turmoil.
• Colombia – GOV.AU – A terrorist attack could occur anywhere and at any time in Colombia. Possible targets include government buildings, military and police sites or personnel, transport infrastructure such as airports and public transport, and places such as nightclubs, hotels, restaurants, shopping malls and corporate facilities.
• Egypt – GOV.UK – Terrorists are very likely to try to carry out attacks in Egypt. Although most attacks occur in North Sinai, there is a risk of terrorist attacks across the country. Attacks could be indiscriminate, affecting Egyptian security forces, religious sites, large public gatherings and places visited by foreigners. There is a heightened threat of terrorist attacks in or around religious sites and during religious festivals, such as the month of Ramadan and the Christmas period (including Coptic Christmas), when terrorist groups have sometimes called for attacks. Terrorist attacks have occurred over local holiday weekends. Terrorists have attacked tourists in Egypt in the past. There is a heightened threat of terrorist attacks targeting Coptic Christians from extremists linked to Daesh Sinai in Egypt.
• El Salvador – GOV.UK – Terrorist attacks in El Salvador can’t be ruled out.
• Guinnea Bissau – UN News – Organized criminal networks continue to pose a threat to Guinea Bissau and undermine stability in the West African nation, Foreign Minister Suzi Barbosa said in her speech on Saturday to the UN General Assembly.
• Israel, Gaza and West Bank – GOV.AU – On 1 September, Hezbollah and Israel exchanged fire on the border between Lebanon and Israel. Tensions remain high and further confrontation is possible, including missiles fired towards Israeli territory. An outbreak of heightened conflict between Israel and Hezbollah would significantly increase risks to your safety and security.
• Kenya – GOV.AU – Attacks could be indiscriminate or could target Kenyan institutions or places where foreigners gather. Terrorist acts could include suicide bombings, kidnappings, roadside improvised explosive device (IED) attacks and attacks on civil aviation.
• Myanmar – GC.CA ,GOV.UK, GOV.AU – There have been social media reports of alleged bomb threats against Naypyitaw on 16 September, 26 September, 16 October and 26 October 2019. The Myanmar government has not corroborated this information. No specific measures are recommended at this time. When travelling anywhere in Myanmar, you should monitor the latest developments, continue to remain vigilant, take sensible precautions, avoid large demonstrations or gatherings, and follow the advice of the local security forces.
• Tanzania – U.S. Department of State – Terrorist groups continue plotting possible attacks in Tanzania. Terrorists may attack with little or no warning, targeting embassies, police stations, mosques, and other places frequented by Westerners.

Crime and Social Unrest

• Hong Kong – GC.CA , GOV.UK, GOV.AU – Large demonstrations and violent incidents occurred on September 28, 29 and October 1, 2019.  Monitor local media for information and advice on upcoming demonstrations. Follow the instructions of local authorities. Avoid areas where demonstrations and large gatherings are taking place. Move away quickly and take shelter in a safe place if there are signs of civil disorder. Check your flight status and the latest information provided by your airline before making your way to the airport. Plan to get to the airport well in advance of your flight’s planned departure and go through Security and Immigration immediately upon arrival.
• Indonesia – GOV.UK – Violent protests have taken place in Manokwari, West Papua Province and in Jayapura and Wamena, Papua Province during August and September 2019. You should monitor local media, follow the advice of local authorities, and avoid large gatherings in public areas, including demonstrations and political rallies, as they could become violent with little notice.
• Mozambique – GOV.AU – General elections will be held on 15 October 2019. Violent civil unrest is possible leading up to and after the elections. Avoid political rallies, demonstrations and large public gatherings, as they could turn violent with little warning.
• Poland – GOV.AU – There’s an increasing number of reports where travellers are being scammed with drink spiking and credit card overcharging in venues frequented by tourists. People have been lured in and overcharged for drinks on credit cards while under the influence.

Demonstrations

• Argentina – GC.CA – General elections are due to take place on October 27, 2019. Monitor local media to avoid demonstrations and roadblocks that may occur during the campaign period.  Demonstrations, roadblocks and strikes may occur throughout the country at any time. Even peaceful demonstrations can turn violent at any time. They can also lead to disruptions to traffic and public transportation. Avoid areas where demonstrations and large gatherings are taking place. Follow the instructions of local authorities. Monitor local media for information on ongoing demonstrations. Never attempt to cross blockades, even if they appear unattended.
• Ecuador – GC.CA – There have been economic protests at the official border crossing in Carchi Province since September 26, 2019. Protesters have erected roadblocks and burning barricades that are disrupting traffic at the border crossing. Clashes between protestors and security forces have occurred. If you’re travelling in the affected areas: expect a heightened security presence; always cooperate with military and police officers; avoid crossing road blockades, even if they appear unattended; allow extra time to reach your destination; follow the instructions of local authorities; monitor local news to stay informed on ongoing demonstrations.
• Egypt – GOV.AU – Political demonstrations have occurred across Egypt since 20 September. There have been calls further protests. There is a heightened security presence in Tahrir Square in Cairo, and in other central locations. Avoid public gatherings, protests and demonstrations. Follow the advice of local authorities.
• France – GC.CA – The Yellow Vests movement remains active in Paris and in several other parts of the country. Demonstrations occur sporadically in cities, mainly on Saturdays. Acts of vandalism and violence have occurred. Traffic disruptions have also occurred due to strategic attempts to block transport routes such as roads, train stations and airports. Disruptions to public services and closures of various sites usually open to the public (businesses, museums, tourist attractions) have also taken place.
• Greece – GOV.UK – Due to planned strike action, there may be delays at the Athens ports of Piraeus, Rafina and Lavrio on Wednesday 2 October 2019. You should check for updates with your ferry company if you are travelling on a route to or from Athens ports. On Thursday 3 October, planned strike action may affect or close the metro and local rail services to and from Athens International Airport. You should leave more time for your transfer to or from the airport using alternative methods, such as buses or taxis.
• Haiti – GC.CA – There have been economic protests at the official border crossing in Carchi Province since September 26, 2019. Protesters have erected roadblocks and burning barricades that are disrupting traffic at the border crossing. Clashes between protestors and security forces have occurred. If you’re travelling in the affected areas: expect a heightened security presence; always cooperate with military and police officers; avoid crossing road blockades, even if they appear unattended; allow extra time to reach your destination; follow the instructions of local authorities; monitor local news to stay informed on ongoing demonstrations.  Large demonstrations and violent incidents occurred on September 28, 29 and October 1, 2019.  Monitor local media for information and advice on upcoming demonstrations. Follow the instructions of local authorities. Avoid areas where demonstrations and large gatherings are taking place. Move away quickly and take shelter in a safe place if there are signs of civil disorder. Check your flight status and the latest information provided by your airline before making your way to the airport. Plan to get to the airport well in advance of your flight’s planned departure and go through Security and Immigration immediately upon arrival.
• Tunisia – GC.CA – Legislative elections are due to take place on October 6, 2019. Demonstrations could occur before, during and after the elections. Avoid areas where demonstrations and large gatherings are taking place or could occur as local conditions may change rapidly. Follow the instructions of local authorities. Monitor local media for information on ongoing demonstrations.

Health

• France – ECDC – Dengue fever. In September 2019, local health authorities in France reported two autochthonous cases of dengue in residents of the departments of Rhône and Alpes Maritimes, France, with no relevant travel history.
• Greece, Hungary, Romania, Serbia, North Macedonia – ECDC – West Nile virus. Between 20 and 26 September 2019, EU Member States reported 26 human cases in Greece (14), Hungary (6) and Romania (6). EU neighbouring countries reported seven cases in Serbia (5) and North Macedonia (2). All human cases were reported from areas that have been affected previously. This week, one death was reported by Romania (1). In the same week, five outbreaks among equids were reported to the Animal Disease Notification System (ADNS) by Germany (3), Austria (1) and France (1).
• Japan – ECDC – Mass gathering and Rubella.  ECDC is monitoring the Rugby World Cup 2019 taking place from 20 September to November 2019 in Japan to detect threats to public health that could affect the EU/EEA visitors. This event will gather 20 international teams, six of which are from four EU countries: UK (3), France (1), Ireland (1) and Italy (1). The competitions will be organised in 12 different stadiums across the country, hosting approximately 400 000 international visitors.  No major events have been detected. An outbreak of rubella continues in Japan with 2 190 cases reported in 2019 as of 18 September 2019.
• Nigeria – WHO – Yellow fever. On 16 July 2019, the Ebonyi State Ministry of Health received information about suspected yellow fever cases in Ndingele ward, Izzi Local Government Area (LGA), Nigeria. The cases had symptoms of fever and jaundice, reported with onset since May 2019. As of 30 August 2019, a total of 84 suspected yellow fever cases, including 26 deaths (case fatality ratio: 31 %), have been reported across nine LGAs within Ebonyi State.
• Pakistan – CDC – Typhoid fever. There is an ongoing outbreak of extensively drug resistant (XDR) typhoid fever in Pakistan. Extensively drug resistant infections do not respond to most antibiotics.
• Philippines – GOV.AU – Polio. On 19 September 2019, the Philippines Department of Health reported a polio outbreak. The local authorities are taking measures to limit the spread of the disease.
• Saudi Arabia – WHO – MERS CoV. From 1 through 31 August 2019, the National IHR Focal Point of Saudi Arabia reported 6 additional laboratory confirmed cases of Middle East respiratory syndrome (MERS CoV) infection and one associated death. The cases were reported from Riyadh (3 cases), Taif (1 case), Quriyat (1 case), and Najran (1 case) regions.
• Sudan, Zambia, Yemen, Democratic Republic of the Congo – ECDC – Cholera. Since the last update on 30 August 2019, new cholera cases have been reported worldwide and countries such as Sudan and Zambia are reporting new cholera outbreaks. Countries reporting the majority of new cases since the previous update are Yemen with 75270 cases and 61 deaths and DR Congo with 2870 cases and 38 deaths.
• Ukraine – CDC – Mass gathering and Measles. The annual Rosh Hashanah pilgrimage to the grave site of Rebbe Nachman will take place September 29 through October 1, 2019. Attendance at this pilgrimage continues to increase, with more than 30,000 people participating in 2018. Any mass gathering is associated with health risks, including the spread of infectious diseases such as measles. On going measles outbreak in Ukraine puts travelers who are not vaccinated at risk.
• Vietnam – GOV.UK – High levels of air pollution, up to and including hazardous levels, occur in Vietnam particularly in the biggest cities and may aggravate heart, lung or respiratory conditions. Children, the elderly and those with pre existing medical conditions may be especially affected. You can find advice on air quality and possible mitigation on the World Health Organization (WHO) website. You can check air quality levels for some cities in Vietnam in real time on the World Air Quality Index website.

Law and Culture

• New Zealand – GOVT.NZ – Some visitors and transit passengers can travel to New Zealand without a visa if they get an NZeTA (New Zealand Electronic Travel Authority) before they travel.
• Tanzania – U.S. Department of State – Members of the LGBTI community have been arrested, targeted, harassed, and/or charged with unrelated offenses. Individuals detained under suspicion of same-sex sexual conduct could be subject to forced anal examinations.

Natural Disasters and Climate

• British Virgin Islands – GOV.UK – A Tropical Storm Warning has been issued for the British Virgin Islands for Tropical Storm Karen: tropical storm conditions are expected in the warning area within 36 hours. The airport and ports are currently closed. You should follow the advice of local authorities and monitor local news and weather reports.
• China – GC.CA – Typhoon MITAG is expected to pass off the coast of Zhejiang province on October 1, 2019. The storm is likely to bring excessive rainfall and violent winds. It may cause flash flooding and landslides and could severely disrupt the following essential services: transportation, power distribution, water and food supply, telecommunications networks, emergency services, medical care. If you are in the affected area: exercise caution, monitor local news and weather reports, follow the instructions of local authorities
• Drought advisory – GDACS – The drought alert is orange for the following countries.  Botswana, Lesotho, Mozambique, Namibia, Swaziland, South Africa, Zimbabwe; China, India, Cambodia, Laos, Myanmar, Thailand, Vietnam; Belize, Costa Rica, Guatemala, Honduras, Mexico, Nicaragua, El Salvador, Argentina, Chile, and Australia.
• Japan – GOV.UK – A typhoon is expected to bring heavy rain and winds to wide areas of Japan in the week commencing 30 September 2019, with potential disruption to transport and other essential services. You should monitor news and follow the advice of the local authorities; if you are due to travel, check with transport operators for changes to schedules.
• Nepal – GOV.UK – The monsoon season normally runs from June to September. Flooding and landslides often occur during this time. Road travel anywhere can be hazardous, particularly in rural areas.
• Pakistan – GC.CA, GOV.UK – On September 24, 2019, a 5.8 magnitude earthquake struck Mirpur, in the north eastern Pakistan administered territory of Azad Kashmir, causing fatalities and material damages. If you’re in or around the affected areas: monitor local media for the latest developments; follow the instructions of local authorities.
• Portugal – GOV.UK – Hurricane Lorenzo is expected to reach the Azores on 2 October. You should monitor updates on the Portuguese Meteorological Institute website and follow the instructions of the local civil protection authorities. If you’re travelling to or from the Azores, check with your tour operator or airline company for any delays or disruptions to your travel plans.
• South Korea – GC.CA – Tropical storm MITAG is expected to sweep through south eastern South Korea as a typhoon around October 2, 2019. The storm is likely to bring excessive rainfall and violent winds. It may cause flash flooding and landslides and could severely disrupt the following essential services: transportation, power distribution, water and food supply, telecommunications networks, emergency services, medical care. If you are in the affected area: exercise caution, monitor local news and weather reports, follow the instructions of local authorities.
• Turkey – GOV.UK – On Thursday 26 September 2019, a reported 6.0 magnitude earthquake struck west of Istanbul in the Marmara Sea. There are no immediate reports of casualties. If you are in the region, you should monitor developments and follow the advice of local authorities.

Other

• China – GOV.UK – If you’re heading to the 126th Canton Fair, taking place from 15 October to 4 November in Guangzhou, check out the GOV.UK dedicated advice page.
• Cuba – GOV.UK – The Cuban Government has announced that it is taking measures to manage electricity and fuel supplies in the coming days and weeks in view of limited stocks and deliveries of oil in September. Government measures include prioritising supplies for essential services. The Government has said there will be notice of any planned power cuts. Transport services, including trains and buses, are being reduced. Tour operators, hotels and owners of casas particulares will be aware if their services are to be affected.
• France – France – Chelsea take on Lille in the Champions League on Wednesday 2 October 2019 at the Stade Pierre Mauroy, Villeneuve d’Ascq. Fans travelling to Lille for the match should view the GOV.UK dedicated advice page.
• Slovenia – GOV.UK – There are ongoing cancellations of Adria Airways flights to and from Ljubljana airport. If you are booked to fly with the airline, check your flight status before travelling to your departure airport and contact your tour operator or travel company for further information.

Ebola News

• Democratic Republic of the Congo – ECDC – Ebola. Since the previous CDTR and as of 25 September 2019, the Ministry of Health of the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) has reported 27 additional confirmed cases and one probable case. During the same period, 17 deaths among confirmed cases were reported. One additional healthcare worker was reported among these new cases. There are still pockets of localised insecurity that continue to hinder some response activities, with a third occuring in Mambasa. The major incident from last week in Lwemba, Mandima continues to prevent all response activities in that area. Demonstrations can occur with no warning.  Even though recent demonstrations were peaceful, police and other security forces may respond to public demonstrations with violence.  Foreigners could be targeted in reaction to national and international events.  Violence continues along the border between Chad and Sudan and areas that border South Sudan (including the disputed Abyei area).  Armed opposition groups are active in Central Darfur state and parts of Blue Nile and South Kordofan states. The U.S. government has limited ability to provide emergency services to U.S. citizens in Sudan, as U.S. government employees must obtain special authorization from the Sudanese government to travel outside of Khartoum.
• Rwanda – ECDC – Ebola.  On Tuesday 24 September 2019 there were rapid reaction exercises for Ebola organized for hospitals across the country. There are currently no cases in Rwanda, but these exercises are performed as preparedness activities.
• Tanzania – GOV.UK,  ECDC , U.S. Department of State – Ebola. A person has died in Tanzania in September 2019. It appears probable that this is an Ebola related death. The WHO continues to investigate and has issued a statement. The British High Commission in Dar es Salaam is in contact with Tanzanian authorities and international health organisations. Follow up developments at the WHO website.

Please note the revision date (mmddyy) of this report, printed on the title of the post, and go to the direct sources listed for the most up-to-date information.  The information in this report may change without prior notice.