121019 – 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.

Take Enhanced Precautions

Conflict and Terrorism

• Belgium – GOV.UK – Terrorists are likely to try to carry out attacks in Belgium. Attacks could happen anywhere, including on public transport and transport hubs and in other places visited by foreigners. You should be vigilant in public places and follow the advice of local Belgian authorities. Brussels hosts a number of international institutions (EU and NATO) and government and foreign embassy buildings which are sensitive locations.There is considered to be a heightened threat of terrorist attack globally against UK interests and British nationals, from groups or individuals motivated by the conflict in Iraq and Syria. You should be vigilant at this time.
• Indonesia – Indonesia – There’s a continuing high risk of terrorist attack, including over Christmas. Terrorists have in the past targeted places of worship. Expect increased security.
• Iraq – UN News – New reports from the region put Friday’s death toll in the dozens with more than 100 injured during nighttime attacks by unidentified gunmen that targeted anti Government demonstrators in central Baghdad.
• Mozambique – GC.CA – Avoid all travel to the districts of Ancuabe, Ibo, Macomia, Meluco, Mocímboa da Praia, Muidumbe, Nagande, Palma and Quissanga due to clashes between armed groups, security forces and residents.
• Myanmar – Myanmar – On 26 November 2019 a foreign tourist was killed by a landmine while travelling outside Hsipaw town. Do not travel to northern Shan State, including to Hsipaw.
• Papua New Guinea – GOV.UK – Bougainville Island emerged from a period of separatist conflict with the signature of a Peace Agreement in 2001. As part of that Agreement, a referendum on independence will take place from 23 November to 7 December 2019. The result is likely to be declared on or around the 11 December. Bougainville will be busier than usual at this time, and there could be political tensions, especially after the declaration of the result. Take great care when travelling in Bougainville. Be particularly vigilant when travelling beyond Buka into central and southern Bougainville. The mountainous area in central Bougainville around the old Panguna mine is a ‘No Go Zone’, which you should not enter without prior authorisation from the Mekamui who control the border/check point.
• South Sudan – UN News – 75 Nepalese blue helmets have been temporarily deployed from Rumbek to Maper following reports that as many as 79 people were killed and more than 100 injured in a series of communal clashes and revenge attacks between the Gak and Manuer communities.

Crime

• Cabo Verde – U.S. Department of State – Exercise Increased Caution In: Praia due to crime. If you decide to travel to Cabo Verde: Do not physically resist any robbery attempt. Use caution when walking or driving at night. Be aware of your surroundings. Do not display signs of wealth, such as expensive watches or jewelry. Do not answer your door at your hotel/residence unless you know who it is. Be extra vigilant when visiting banks or ATMs.
• Tanzania – U.S. Department of State -Violent crime, such as assault, sexual assault, robberies, mugging, and carjacking, is common. Local police may lack the resources to respond effectively to serious crime.

Demonstrations and Social Unrest

• Albania – GC.CA -Antigovernment demonstrations have taken place in Central Tirana. Violent incidents have occurred, including the use of Molotov cocktails and other projectiles. Police have used tear gas and water cannons to disperse crowds. Clashes have resulted in many injuries. Demonstrations occur in Tirana and may also occur elsewhere in the country. Further confrontations between protesters and security forces are possible. Demonstrations can also involve acts of vandalism. They can lead to disruptions to traffic and public transportation.
• Algeria – GOV.UK – Presidential elections are scheduled to take place on Thursday 12 December 2019. Country wide demonstrations and other forms of protest, which broke out across Algeria in February after former President Bouteflika stood for a fifth term, are continuing. In particular, these are taking place in central Algiers. You should take precautions for your personal safety, avoid political gatherings and demonstrations and take local advice. Protests or strikes can affect transport. Observe instructions given by the local security authorities.
• Algeria – Algeria – Presidential elections will take place on 12 December. The security situation in the lead up to, during and soon after the election may be unpredictable. Avoid large public gatherings and follow the advice of local authorities.
• Bolivia – Bolivia – While political and social tensions continue, the situation in Bolivia is now relatively calm. Large scale political demonstrations could occur with little warning and may result in violence and disruptions to transport routes. Pay close attention to your personal security at all times.
• Chile – GOV.UK – Following civil unrest in October and November across Chile you should expect to see a police presence in major cities. There is potential for further demonstrations with a risk of violence in Santiago and other major cities including, Valparaiso, Viña del Mar, Punta Arenas, Puerto Montt, Concepcion and Antofagasta.
• Chile – Chile – Protests have occurred in the areas of Las Condes, Providencia and Vitacura where the Australian and other embassies are located. Avoid Plaza Baquedano/Plaza Italia in central Santiago, and the centre of Valparaiso. Local law prohibits political activity by foreign nationals. Participation in protests or demonstrations may result in detention or deportation. Avoid protests and large public gatherings. These can become violent. Authorities may use tear gas and water cannons.
• Colombia – GOV.UK – Nationwide strikes and protests have taken place throughout Colombia since 21 November 2019. These are likely to continue over the coming weeks. In response, authorities have been implementing additional security measures, including curfews, at short notice. There is significant disruption to transport services. You should remain vigilant, avoid all demonstrations and monitor local media for the latest information.
• Dominica – GC.CA – Since mid-November 2019, protests have happened throughout the country, including violent incidents. There are reports of burning barricades blocking access to DouglasCharles airport in Marigot. Flights may be disrupted. Cruise ship arrivals have been cancelled until further notice. Further demonstrations could occur. Be cautious and avoid any demonstrations during the campaign period; Allow extra time to reach your destination; Contact your airline or tour operator to determine if the situation will disrupt your travel plans; Follow the instructions of local authorities; Monitor local media for information on ongoing demonstrations.
• France – GC.CA – A large scale general strike was planned across the country on December 5, 2019. This movement could continue after that date. Demonstrations and significant service disruptions are to be expected. Monitor local media (including social media). Follow the instructions of local authorities.
• France – GOV.UK – Significant industrial action is continuing across France. This is primarily affecting transport and public services, with ongoing cancellations and severe delays to train, metro, bus and tram services. Further disruption and cancellations to Eurostar services between London St Pancras and Paris Gare du Nord have also been announced. Other international rail services such as those to the Netherlands, Belgium, Italy and Germany may also be affected. Industrial action at ports may cause delays and cancellations to some cross Channel ferry services. Industrial action by hauliers on some major roads may also cause delays or blockages. Strike action by Air France workers and air traffic controllers may also cause disruption to air travel.  As part of the ongoing industrial action wider demonstrations are also planned across France, including a large authorised demonstration in central Paris on Tuesday 10 December. In all cases, you should avoid demonstrations wherever possible and follow the advice of the local authorities.
• France – France – Large scale strike action across France began on 5 December and may continue for some time. Expect demonstrations and significant disruption to public transport, train, air and other public services. Avoid protests and demonstrations, monitor local media and check with your travel provider before travelling.
• Hong Kong – UN Dispatch (audio) – Protesters in Hong Kong are once again flexing their muscle. Over the weekend, the largest protests in weeks stretched through downtown Hong Kong as nearly 1 million people took to the streets to demand greater civil liberties.
• Hong Kong – GOV.UK – The situation around protests and public gatherings can change quickly, with the potential for violence, especially during unauthorised protests. Police have approved plans for a march organised by the Civil Human Rights Front from Victoria Park to Charter Gardens from 3pm to 10pm on Sunday 8 December. If you’re in an area where demonstrations are taking place, you should remain vigilant, follow the advice of local authorities and move away quickly to a safe place. Previous demonstrations have led to sections of the city being closed off and temporary suspension of public transport without warning.
• India – GOV.UK – You should avoid protests and large gatherings. Stampedes have occurred during some events with large crowds, including at political rallies and religious gatherings, resulting in deaths and injuries. Demonstrations against the Citizenship Amendment Bill are expected to take place in some parts of the country. There have been reports of a bandh (general strike) across North East India on Tuesday 10 December. Travel may be affected in various parts of the region. You should monitor local media for the latest information, follow instructions of the local authorities and allow more time for travel.
• Lebanon – GOV.UK – Protests which began on 17 October 2019 are ongoing. The protests have centered on Beirut and Tripoli, but have occurred at various locations nationwide and often with little notice.  As a result of the protests major roads in and out of Beirut and across the country have become blocked at short notice. This has included the roads to and from Beirut Rafic Hariri International Airport. Plan any journeys carefully, seek local advice before departing and be prepared to change plans at short notice. If you’re travelling to or from the airport, check your flight status before leaving and allow extra time for your journey; if on your arrival roads from the airport are blocked wait there until the authorities confirm access roads are open. Banks have been closed for long periods during the protests. While ATMs have been reliably stocked with Lebanese Pounds, and credit/debit cards continue to be accepted in most circumstances, access to US Dollars has been restricted. You should bring US Dollars with you to Lebanon if you do not intend to use the local currency.
• Myanmar – GC.CA – Demonstrations in support of the Government of Myanmar’s defence at the International Court of Justice, scheduled for December 10 to 12, 2019, have been taking place in Yangon since late November. Demonstrations can occur at any time, with little to no notice. A large demonstration is expected to take place on December 10, in front of City Hall (near the Embassy of Canada).
• Netherlands, Belgium – GOV.UK – From Thursday 5 December to Thursday 12 (inclusive), Eurostar services are expected to be affected by industrial action by railway workers in France. Cancellations and delays are expected. You should check services before travelling.

Health

• Asia and the Pacific Islands – CDC – Dengue. Dengue is a risk in many parts of Asia and the Pacific Islands. Some countries are reporting increased numbers of cases of the disease. Travelers to Asia and the Pacific Islands can protect themselves by preventing mosquito bites.
• European Region – ECDC – Influenza. Influenza activity is increasing in the European Region, although most countries are still reporting influenza activity rates at baseline or low levels.
• Greece – ECDC – Diphtheria. On 5 December 2019, Greek authorities confirmed one fatal case of toxigenic respiratory diphtheria.
• Saudi Arabia – ECDC – Since the previous CDTR published on 31 October 2019 and as of 2 December 2019, Saudi Arabia has reported an increase of 14 cases and three deaths. So far, 11 of 13 regions in Saudi Arabia have reported cases in 2019, and one of these, Madinah, has reported cases in the last seven days.
• Saudi Arabia – WHO – From 1 through 31 October 2019, the National IHR Focal Point of Saudi Arabia reported 15 additional cases of Middle East respiratory syndrome (MERS CoV) infection and six associated deaths. The cases were reported from Assir (5 cases), AlQassim (3 cases), Riyadh (6 cases), and Taif (1 case) regions.
• Tonga, Fiji – GOV.UK – There have been a number of outbreaks of measles in Pacific countries, including Tonga and Fiji.
• United Kingdom – ECDC – Monkeypox. On 4 December 2019, the British authorities reported one imported case of monkeypox with travel history to Nigeria.
• World – CIDRAP – Measles. According to the CDC, 2018’s numbers represent a 167% global increase in cases compared with 2016, and estimated global measles mortality has increased since 2017.  Five countries—the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC), Liberia, Madagascar, Somalia and Ukraine—accounted for almost half of all measles cases in 2018. Four European countries, Albania, Czech Republic, Greece, and the United Kingdom, lost measles elimination status in 2018 and 2019, after each country saw re-established transmission of the virus. And this year, the United States recorded the most measles cases in 25 years.

Kidnapping

• Mozambique – Mozambique – There is a kidnapping risk in parts of Mozambique. Kidnapping is a danger in Maputo, Beira and Cabo Delgado. If you’re travelling to these areas, get professional security advice.

Law and Culture

• 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

• Belize, Guatemala, Honduras, Mexico, Nicaragua; Angola, Botswana, Lesotho, Mozambique, Namibia, Swaziland, South Africa, Zambia, Zimbabwe; China, India, Laos, Myanmar, Thailand, Vietnam; Argentina, Bolivia, Brazil, Peru, Paraguay; Argentina, Chile; Australia; Indonesia, Malaysia – GDACS – The Drought alert level is Orange. Drought indicators suggest anomalies typical of severe to extreme events.
• Madagascar – GOV.UK, GC.CA – – The cyclone season in Madagascar normally runs from November to April. Tropical Cyclone Belna is forecast to make landfall on the north-west coast of Madagascar on 9 December 2019. As well as very strong winds, significant rainfall is anticipated which may lead to flash floods and an increased landslide risk. You should monitor the progress of approaching storms on the METEO Madagascar website, check routes before travelling and follow the advice of local authorities.
• New Zealand – GOV.UK, New Zealand – The Whakaari/White Island volcano erupted on 9 December. An emergency response is under way. If you are travelling in the area, you should follow the advice of the local authorities and / or your tour operator.
• Philippines – GC.CA – Typhoon Kammuri (or Tisoy) made landfall in Sorsogon, in Bicol Region, on December 2, 2019, and swept westward through the Philippines. Heavy rains and violent winds produced by the typhoon caused infrastructural damages. Expect disruptions to power distribution, telecommunications networks and transportation in affected areas.
• Seychelles – GC.CA – The rainy season extends from December to March. During this period, even small tropical storms can quickly develop into major cyclones. These severe storms can put you at risk and hamper the provision of essential services. If you decide to travel to the Seychelles during the rainy season: you expose yourself to serious safety risks; be prepared to change your travel plans on short notice, including cutting short or cancelling your trip; stay informed of the latest regional weather forecasts; carry emergency contact information for your airline or tour operator; follow the advice and instructions of local authorities.

Other

• Fiji – GOV.UK – Many roads in Fiji are in a poor condition and can be dangerous. A lack of street lighting and the presence of pedestrians and stray animals on the road makes travel particularly hazardous after dark. Where possible, you should therefore avoid road travel outside of urban areas at night. When driving, you must keep your driving licence with you at all times. Vehicle safety regulations are rarely enforced and traffic violations can occur. Severe weather can lead to roads becoming damaged, blocked or washed away. Seek local advice before you set out.
• South Africa – GOV.UK – South African Airways is undergoing a business rescue process which may lead to changes to their timetable. Check with your airline or tour operator before travelling.

Ebola News

• Democratic Republic of the Congo – ECDC – Since the previous CDTR and as of 4 December 2019, the Ministry of Health of the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) has reported nine additional confirmed cases. During the same period, six deaths were reported among confirmed cases. Among the new cases was one healthcare worker.  The violence, widespread civil unrest, and targeted attacks in eastern DRC have continued this week, restricting the access of Ebola response teams to the affected communities and this may result in increased transmission. Activities such as contact tracing are still operating to a lesser extent than normal in some areas, but improvement has been seen in Oicha. On 5 December, GAVI stated that a global emergency stockpile of Ebola vaccines will be available to countries for outbreak response and prevention, following the approval of a new Ebola vaccine programme by the Board of Gavi, the Vaccine Alliance, which met this week.

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.