International Education > Archive > Category: World Status Report

041917 – World Status Report

April 19, 2017

Avoid Nonessential Travel

U.S. Department of State

Take Enhanced Precautions

CDC

  • Yellow Fever in Brazil.  The Brazilian Ministry of Health has reported an ongoing outbreak of yellow fever starting in December 2016. In response to this outbreak, health authorities have recently expanded the list of areas in which yellow fever vaccination is recommended for travelers.

Security Messages for U.S. Citizens

  • Security Message for U.S. Citizens: Caracas, Venezuela Scheduled March on April 19, 2017 (17 April 2017). The Embassy strongly cautions all U.S. citizens to avoid protests, and reminds them that even demonstrations intended to be peaceful can turn confrontational and escalate into violence. Recent protests have encountered strong police/security force presence and the use of tear gas and rubber bullets by security forces. U.S. citizens are urged to avoid areas of demonstrations, and to exercise caution if unexpectedly in the vicinity of any large gatherings or protests.

U.S. Department of State

  • Niger Travel Warning. The U.S. Department of State warns U.S. citizens of the risks of travel to Niger due to terrorist activity, kidnappings and high crime.
  • Kenya Travel Alert. The State Department alerts U.S. citizens residing in or traveling to Kenya that general elections are scheduled for August 8, 2017.  Rallies, demonstrations, and protests may occur with little notice and even those intended to be peaceful can escalate into violence. As with all large events, there is also the opportunity for criminal elements or terrorists to target participants and visitors.

Recommended Reading / Viewing

CDC

  • Hajj and Umrah in Saudi Arabia. The annual Hajj, or pilgrimage to Mecca, Saudi Arabia, is among the largest mass gatherings in the world. Because of the crowds, mass gatherings such as Hajj and Umrah are associated with unique health risks. Before you go, you should visit a travel health specialist for advice, make sure you are up to date on all routine and recommended vaccines, and learn about other health and safety issues that could affect you during your trip.
  • Travel & Natural Disasters. Plan ahead and stay safe if traveling during a natural disaster.

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.