110320 – World Status Report

This report intends to give the UTD Community a snapshot of international risks, and other issues as reported by the linked official sources from the U.S. and other countries.

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

• Tanzania * GOV.UK * The FCDO advise against all but essential travel: to any area within 20km of the Tanzanian border with the Cabo Delgado province of Mozambique, due to attacks by groups linked with Islamic extremism.

Demonstrations and Social Unrest

• Burkina Faso * GOV.UK * Presidential and legislative elections will take place on 22 November 2020. The election campaign will run from 31 October to 20 November 2020. The FCDO advise against all but essential travel to the capital Ouagadougou, up to the toll booths on all roads out of the city, and against all travel to the rest of Burkina Faso. If in Ouagadougou, exercise caution and avoid large political rallies and gatherings, areas of demonstrations and protests. Crowds can gather quickly and may become violent. In the event of unrest monitor local media and follow instructions and announcements from the local authorities.

Natural Disasters and Climate

• United States * GC.CA * Avoid non-essential travel to the coast of Louisiana and Mississippi, from Morgan City to the border between Mississippi and Alabama due to the damages caused by Hurricane Zeta.

Other

• Venezuela * DOS * Do not travel to Venezuela due to crime, civil unrest, poor health infrastructure, kidnapping, arbitrary arrest and detention of U.S. citizens, and COVID-19. Read the Department of State’s COVID-19 page before you plan any international travel.   The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has issued a Level 3 Travel Health Notice for Venezuela due to COVID-19 and a Level 3 Travel Health Notice for Venezuela due to Health Infrastructure Breakdown. Visit the Venezuela Affairs Unit’s COVID-19 page for more information on COVID-19 in Venezuela.

Take Enhanced Precautions

Conflict and Terrorism

• France * GC.CA * Following multiple terrorist attacks in September and October 2020, the French government decided on October 29, 2020, to raise the level of the Vigipirate system to the maximum level of “Urgence attentat” for the entire national territory. Further attacks are likely. Expect increased security measures and police/military presence in public areas.
• France * GOV.UK * On 29 October the French Prime Minister increased France’s national security threat level to “urgent” following a terrorist incident in Nice. You should be vigilant at this time and follow the advice of local authorities.
• France * GOV.AU * France has increased its national security threat alert to the maximum level to advise of ‘imminent attack’ following terrorist attacks. There is a very high risk of terrorist attacks in France. Be cautious throughout France, including places of worship and schools. Authorities have authorised extra counter-terrorism powers. They may restrict your access to some places or search you. Take official warnings seriously. A nationwide lockdown because of COVID-19 will start from midnight 30 October, with only essential movement permitted. All restaurants, bars, cafes and non-essential shops will be closed during this period. Other restrictions are in place and may change at short notice (see ‘Travel’).
• Kyrgyzstan * GOV.UK * Tensions exist over recognition of the Kyrgyz/Tajik borders. There have been a number of security incidents in this region and several gunfire exchanges, the most recent in October 2020.
• Saudi Arabia * GOV.UK * On 29 October 2020, there was a knife attack outside the French Consulate in Jeddah, which is being investigated by the Saudi authorities. We continue to monitor developments closely.
• Tanzania * GOV.AU * In October 2020, a violent attack occurred in Kitaya village, in Mtwara, close to the border with Mozambique. Take particular care near the border with Mozambique due to the threat of militant attacks, terrorism and kidnappings. You’ll be subjected to enhanced screening for COVID-19 when entering or leaving Tanzania. If you show symptoms of COVID-19, expect further investigations and possible self-isolation for 14 days. Follow the advice of local authorities and COVID-19 infection prevention and control measures.

Demonstrations and Social Unrest

• Algeria * GC.CA * A constitutional referendum is due to take place on November 1, 2020. Political demonstrations and large gatherings can occur before, during and after the referendum.
• Algeria * GOV.UK * In particular, there may be protests around the 1 November Constitutional Referendum. You should take precautions for your personal safety by limiting your movements on 1 November and if you must travel, you should avoid political gatherings, polling stations and demonstrations. Follow instructions given by local security authorities.
• Chile * GC.CA * A national plebiscite on constitutional reform took place on October 25, 2020. Although the situation is currently calm in Chile, it remains volatile and unpredictable. It could remain as such throughout the constitutional process. Demonstrations could occur, particularly in Plaza Italia in Santiago. They may turn violent at any time. Avoid areas where demonstrations and large gatherings are taking place. Follow the instructions of local authorities. Monitor local media for information on the ongoing situation. Chilean law prohibits political activities by foreigners. Participating in demonstration or promoting dissent, including on social media, may result in being detained and/or deported.
• Côte d’Ivoire * GC.CA * The situation is volatile and unpredictable in Côte d’Ivoire following the presidential elections held on October 31, 2020. Major protests have been occurring in recent weeks in Abidjan and its suburbs. Clashes have occurred between protesters and security forces, resulting in casualties. Roadblocks have disrupted transportation and access to essential services. Demonstrations could continue following the announcement of the election results. Local authorities may impose some restrictions such as local or regional curfews. If you’re in Côte d’Ivoire: remain cautious, avoid areas where demonstrations and large gatherings are taking place, follow the instructions of local authorities, monitor local media for the latest information.
• Côte d’Ivoire * GOV.UK * Presidential elections are scheduled to take place on Saturday 31 October 2020. Demonstrations, road blocks and protests have taken place across the country since the start of the election campaign on 15 October. Further protests are likely. You should avoid all demonstrations, large crowds and rallies, particularly on election day.
• Côte d’Ivoire (Ivory Coast) * GOV.AU * Presidential elections will be held on 31 October. Political demonstrations can turn violent. Avoid large gatherings in the lead up to, during and immediately following election day. All passengers arriving in Côte d’Ivoire by air must complete an online air travel and health declaration. You must also provide a negative COVID-19 test result, taken within 5 days of travel. Land and sea borders remain closed. Continue to expect movement restrictions. The Australian High Commission in Accra currently has limited capacity to provide consular assistance in Côte d’Ivoire.
• Georgia * GOV.UK * A number of large rallies are expected around parliamentary elections taking place on 31 October. These could escalate without warning. You should check local media, stay away from any large gatherings and demonstrations and follow the advice of local authorities.
• Iraq * GC.CA * Protests have been occurring throughout the country since October 1, 2019. Spontaneous protests could take place particularly in city squares, main intersections and in front of universities, schools, and government buildings. Clashes between protestors and security forces have caused multiple casualties. Security forces have used tear gas, water cannons, and live ammunition to disperse crowds. Security restrictions, such as curfews and checkpoints, can be enforced in some regions and can change on short notice. Internet and/or social media access may be suspended in some areas during periods of civil unrest.
• Montenegro * GOV.UK * Following the death of the leader of the Serbian Orthodox Church in Montenegro on 30 October, large numbers of people are expected to gather over the weekend to pay their respects in Podgorica, and in Cetinje on 1 November for the funeral. You should exercise caution, keep up to date with local developments, check local media and avoid any demonstrations or large gatherings. In the event of any incidents, you should follow the advice of local authorities.
• Myanmar * GC.CA * General elections are due to take place on November 8, 2020. Demonstrations could occur before, during and after the elections. COVID-19-related restrictions, including a curfew, remain in place and further restrictions could be imposed on short notice. Expect a heightened security presence. Avoid areas where demonstrations and large gatherings are taking place. Monitor local media for information on ongoing demonstrations.
• Myanmar (Burma) * GOV.UK * Myanmar will hold national elections on 8 November. Although people living in areas under stay at home orders will be allowed to leave their homes and gather in groups of up to 30 for voting, Myanmar’s COVID-19 measures remain in place for all other reasons. Check the latest information on risk from COVID-19 for Myanmar on the TravelHealthPro website. In addition, ahead of any election, there may be increased gatherings and rallies. You should avoid all demonstrations and large political gatherings.
• Nigeria * GC.CA * Protests calling for the disbanding of the Special Anti-Robbery Squad (SARS) unit have led to violent incidents throughout the country since the beginning of October 2020. Clashes between protesters and security forces have occurred, resulting in several casualties. Police have used gunfire and tear gas, while arson and looting incidents have been reported. The situation remains volatile and unpredictable, especially in Lagos. Roadblocks could disrupt transportation and access to essential services. Access to main airports could be blocked at any time. Many curfews are in effect throughout the country. Further protests could occur and may turn violent at any time. If you are in Nigeria: remain cautious, avoid areas where demonstrations and large gatherings are taking place, expect a heightened security presence, allow extra time to reach your destination, follow the instructions of local authorities, monitor local media for information on ongoing demonstrations.
• Poland * GC.CA * Large demonstrations have been taking place across Poland since the announcement by the Constitutional Court of a verdict which severely restricts the right to abortion. Even peaceful demonstrations can lead to clashes with security forces. They can also lead to disruptions to traffic and public transportation. These demonstrations may continue. If you are in Poland: remain cautious, avoid areas where demonstrations and large gatherings are taking place, expect a heightened security presence, allow extra time to reach your destination, monitor local media for information on ongoing demonstrations.
• Poland * GOV.UK * Large scale protests are currently taking place across Poland following a court ruling on abortion. These gatherings are mostly peaceful and well-policed, but you should take extra care as in any crowded place.
• Sudan * GC.CA * Demonstrations take place regularly. 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.
• Uganda * GOV.UK * The nominations for Presidential candidates for the 2021 election will take place at Kyambogo cricket ground, Kampala on 2 and 3 November. Traffic restrictions will be in place and there will be movement restrictions for the residents of Kyambogo, Kireka and neighbouring areas on both 2 and 3 November. Demonstrations are likely during this period.
• United States * GC.CA * Demonstrations have been taking place in Philadelphia, since the shooting of an American citizen by police on October 26, 2020. Clashes have occurred between protesters and police. Protests and demonstrations have occurred since May 25, 2020, in several US cities. Clashes have occurred between protesters and police, and have included the use of tear gas. Confrontations have resulted in casualties. Further protests could occur and local authorities could impose additional curfews without notice.
• United States * GOVT.NZ * The United States presidential election is scheduled to take place on Tuesday 3 November 2020, with an inauguration ceremony on Wednesday 20 January 2021. Political activity including rallies and protest activity can be expected in the lead up to the election and the Presidential inauguration.
• United States of America * GOV.AU * Protests and demonstrations continue in several US cities. Avoid areas where protests are occurring due to the ongoing potential for violence. Monitor the media for information and updates. Follow the instructions of local authorities. The 2020 Presidential Election will be held on Tuesday 3 November, with the presidential inauguration taking place on 20 January 2021. Monitor the Embassy website for further COVID-19 related information (see Local Contacts).

Health

• French Antilles * Communicable disease threats report, 25-31 October 2020, week 44 * Dengue. Since the previous update, with data as of 10 October 2020 and as of 29 October 2020, an additional 5 363 dengue cases have been reported in Guadeloupe, Saint-Martin, Saint-Barthélemy and Martinique. The following cases have been reported since the previous update: Guadeloupe: 1 910 additional suspected cases. Saint-Martin: 100 additional suspected cases. Saint-Barthelemy: 53 additional suspected cases. Martinique: 3 300 additional suspected cases, including one death.
• Multi-country * Communicable disease threats report, 25-31 October 2020, week 44 * West Nile Virus. Between 23 and 29 October 2020, EU Member States reported two human cases of WNV infection: Greece (1) and Italy (1). These cases were reported from areas that have been affected during previous transmission seasons. This week, two deaths were reported by Greece. No human cases of WNV infection or deaths were reported from EU-neighbouring countries. ECDC links: West Nile virus infection atlas.
• Multi-country * Communicable disease threats report, 25-31 October 2020, week 44 * Influenza. Week 43/2020 (19 October-25 October 2020) Influenza activity remained at interseasonal levels. Of 236 sentinel specimens tested for influenza viruses in week 43, 2 (<1%) were positive. Of 6 630 non-sentinel specimens tested for the presence of influenza viruses, three were positive: one for influenza A (H1)pdm09 and two for influenza type B (neither ascribed to a lineage). There were no hospitalized laboratory-confirmed influenza cases reported for week 43/2020.
• Multi-country * Communicable disease threats report, 25-31 October 2020, week 44 * Cholera. Since the last update on 2 October 2020, new cholera cases have been reported worldwide. Countries reporting the majority of new cases since the previous update are Yemen and Democratic Republic of the Congo. A list of all countries reporting new cases since the previous update on 2 October 2020 can be found below.
• Multi-country * Communicable disease threats report, 25-31 October 2020, week 44 * Middle East respiratory syndrome coronavirus (MERS-CoV). Since the previous update and as of 27 October 2020, no additional cases of MERS-CoV have been reported by Saudi Arabia health authorities or by WHO.

Natural Disasters and Climate

• Costa Rica * GOV.UK * Tropical Storm ETA is forecast to bring hazardous sea and weather conditions to the Atlantic Coast of Central America, including Costa Rica, from around Monday 2 November 2020. You should monitor local and international weather updates from the US National Hurricane Centre who also publish Key Messages. Follow the advice of local authorities, including any evacuation orders.
• Europe * ECHO Daily Flash of 02 November 2020 * Floods and flood warnings. Finland : threshold level 2/3 exceeded for Vietonen Kaaranneskoski station. Georgia: threshold level 2/2 exceeded for Tskhenisckali – Ludji station. Germany: threshold level 2/4 exceeded for river Oder in region Brandenburg. United Kingdom: threshold level 2/3 exceeded for 37 locations in England and Wales and 16 locations in Scotland.
• Honduras * GC.CA * Hurricane Eta should make landfall on the east coast of Honduras on November 3, 2020. The hurricane 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. Avoid any unnecessary travel through the affected areas. If you reside in the affected areas, you should exercise caution, monitor local news and weather reports, and follow the instructions of local authorities.
• Honduras * GOV.UK *Hurricane Eta is forecast to bring hazardous sea and weather conditions to the northeastern coast of Honduras, including the Bay Islands, from Monday 2 November into Tuesday 3 November 2020, with a warning of tropical storm conditions from the Nicaragua/Honduras border southward and westward. Flash flooding and landslides are likely. You should monitor local and international weather updates from the US National Hurricane Centre.
• Nicaragua * GC.CA * Hurricane Eta should make landfall on the east coast of Nicaragua on November 3, 2020. The hurricane 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. Avoid any unnecessary travel through the affected areas. If you reside in the affected areas, you should exercise caution, monitor local news and weather reports, and follow the instructions of local authorities.
• Nicaragua * GOV.UK * Hurricane Eta is forecast to bring hazardous sea and weather conditions to the Atlantic Coast of Nicaragua from around Monday 2 November 2020 into Tuesday 3 November. A hurricane warning is in effect from the Nicaragua/Honduras border southward and westward, with forecasts predicting a strengthening to a Category 3 hurricane. Flash flooding and landslides are likely. You should monitor local and international weather updates from US National Hurricane Centre who also publish Key Messages. Follow the advice of local authorities, including any evacuation orders.
• Nicaragua * GOV.UK * Hurricane Eta is forecast to bring hazardous sea and weather conditions to the Atlantic Coast of Nicaragua from around Monday 2 November 2020 into Tuesday 3 November. A hurricane warning is in effect from the Nicaragua/Honduras border southward and westward, with forecasts predicting a strengthening to a Category 3 hurricane. Flash flooding and landslides are likely. You should monitor local and international weather updates from US National Hurricane Centre who also publish Key Messages. Follow the advice of local authorities, including any evacuation orders.
• Philippines * ECHO Daily Flash of 02 November 2020 * Typhoon GONI Update Typhoon GONI is the 4th  and the strongest storm that hit the Philippines traversing the same path in the last 3 weeks. It is  the strongest storm that hit the country since Typhoon Haiyan in 2013. Typhoon GONI underwent extreme rapid intensification and was declared a Super Typhoon with maximum sustained winds of 225km/h near the centre and gustiness of up to 280km/h before making landfall in Bato, Catanduanes on 1 November. The Province of Albay in Bicol region is one the most affected with massive volcanic mudflow from Mayon Volcano has been reported in the town of Guinobatan, Albay, burying at least 147 houses. Flooding has been reported as reaching the roof levels. In Camarines provinces, many houses have been destroyed especially in the coastal communities. In the province of Quezon, storm surge occurred in the town of Tagkawayan. In the province of Aurora, residents of towns of Dinggalan and Dipaculao are evacuated from landslides coming from the mountain range, Sierra Madre, and storm surge coming from the Pacific Ocean. Catanduanes, the Ground Zero, could have 80% to 90% damage on shelter especially in towns of Bato, Virac and San Andres. The lahar flashflood in Albay from Mayon Volcano is massive. 16 dead (10 from Albay and 6 from Catanduanes) are reported by media so far and unknown number of people are missing. Communication network and power outage in most of Bicol areas hinders flow of information. The situation in many areas remain unknown. Humanitarian agencies with staff and local partners on the ground are currently assessing the humanitarian impact of the typhoon in the most hard-hit areas, in coordination with the Government. This work is being affected by movement restrictions and safety protocols in place due to COVID-19. Philippine Red Cross emergency response teams are supporting the authorities in search and rescue efforts and in providing immediate relief to hard-hit communities as the disaster unfolds.
• Philippines * GC.CA * Typhoon Goni recently passed through the Philippines and caused significant damage in certain regions, including Catanduanes, Bicol and Calabarzon. There could be disruptions to the following essential services: transportation. power distribution, water and food supply, telecommunications networks, emergency services, medical care. If you live in or are travelling to the affected areas you should exercise caution, monitor local news and weather reports, and follow the instructions of local authorities.
• Philippines * GOV.UK * Super Typhoon Goni (local name Rolly) made landfall in the Philippines on the morning of 1 November. It is expected to reach Central and Southern Luzon, including Manila, on 1 November. Intense winds and rain are forecast.
• Thailand and Vietnam * ECHO Daily Flash of 02 November 2020 * Mekong floods. In  Thailand, a total of 91,641 households in 2,341 villages in 152 districts of 34 provinces have been adversely affected by the tropical storms occurring from 7 to 31 October. As of 1 November, at least 6 fatalities were reported from flash floods across the country. In Vietnam, at least 159 people have died and 71 people are still missing due to floods and landslides triggered by storms and heavy rains in central Vietnam. Typhoon Molave damaged around 92,000 houses. A total of 5,000 houses completely collapsed, while over 600 schools and hospitals were damaged. Typhoon Goni will be the 10th storm to hit Vietnam this year and the 5th storm to sweep through the central region within a month. The National Centre for Hydro-meteorological Forecasting of Vietnam warned the central localities from Da Nang to Phu Yen against heavy and intense rains as of 3 November.  Cambodia, Laos, and Thailand will also experience heavy rain and potential flash floods.
• Turkey * GOV.AU * On 30 October, a 7.0 magnitude earthquake struck in the Aegean Sea, off Turkey’s Izmir province. If you are in the region, contact your family and friends and let them know you are safe. Monitor local media and follow the advice of local authorities. If you need emergency consular assistance contact the Consular Emergency Centre on +61 2 6261 3305. The US Government has warned of credible reports of potential terrorist attacks and kidnappings against US citizens and foreign nationals in Istanbul, as well as potentially other locations in Turkey. Exercise heightened caution in locations where foreigners may gather. Turkey has largely reopened its international land, sea and air borders. Many scheduled international flights have resumed. Everyone arriving into Turkey will be subject to medical checks. The wearing of face masks is mandatory at all times outside the home throughout Turkey. Localised lockdowns or curfews may be in place. See ‘Travel’.
• Vietnam * GC.CA *  Typhoon Molave recently passed through central Vietnam. There have been significant disruptions to the following essential services: transportation, power distribution, water and food supply. If you reside in the affected areas, you should exercise caution, monitor local news and weather reports, and follow the instructions of local authorities.

Other

• Kyrgyzstan * GOV.UK * If you are considering setting up an investment or doing business in Kyrgyzstan it is essential to research carefully, including looking into potential business partners thoroughly. You may also want to consult a local lawyer. Kyrgyzstan is ranked 126th of 198 countries on the 2019 Transparency International Global Corruption Index. Although there are British companies operating successfully in Kyrgyzstan, there have been a number of instances of British people getting into difficulties, including having assets stolen or being physically attacked. Getting redress through the Kyrgyz legal system can be slow and getting judgements implemented can be very difficult. The British Embassy is not able to get involved (including offering advice) in private disputes over property, employment, commercial or other matters.
• Portugal * GOV.UK * There is planned strike action by Portuguese immigration officers at Funchal Airport on 2, 9, 16 and 23 November, which may cause delays. If you are travelling on these days, you should allow additional time to clear border controls when entering and exiting Madeira.

Ebola News

• Democratic Republic of the Congo * Communicable disease threats report, 25-31 October 2020, week 44 * Ebola. Since the last update, and as of 28 October 2020, two additional probable cases have been reported from the Equateur Province in the DRC. Both of them died. The last confirmed case was reported 30 days ago from Makanza Health Zone. Despite this outbreak showing signs of slowing down, there is evidence that it is still ongoing as the response remains challenging.

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.