032218 – World Status Report

Take Enhanced Precautions

• Bangladesh – GOV.UK. As a result of ongoing violence in Burma since August 2017, hundreds of thousands of Rohingya refugees have arrived in the south-east of Bangladesh, close to the border with Burma. They’re concentrated in the sub-districts of Ukhia and Teknaf in the southern part of Cox’s Bazar district. The Bangladeshi authorities regulate access to the areas where the Rohingya are accommodated.  You should exercise caution and consult the local authorities about the latest situation before visiting Ukhia and Teknaf. You may need to meet access requirements. We encourage all humanitarian assistance to be coordinated through recognised humanitarian agencies registered with the Bangladeshi authorities.
• Brazil – CDC. There is a large, ongoing outbreak of yellow fever in multiple states of Brazil. Travelers to Brazil should protect themselves from yellow fever by getting yellow fever vaccine at least 10 days before travel, and preventing mosquito bites.
• Burkina Faso – Government of Canada.  There is a threat of terrorism. There have been multiple attacks in Ouagadougou. Further attacks cannot be ruled out. During the attacks in 2016 and 2017, assailants specifically targeted establishments frequented by foreigners. Avoid bars and restaurants that are mostly frequented by foreigners at peak hours. Stay at hotels that have robust security measures; however, keep in mind that even the most secure locations cannot be considered completely free of risk.
• Denmark – GOV.UK. If you’re travelling from Germany using the land border or by rail, road or ferry from Sweden, you should ensure you have your passport with you; allow additional time, follow instructions of the authorities and check with your carrier, ferry operator or the Danish State Railways for further information.
• Jamaica – GOV.UK. A state of emergency in the Parish of St James, which includes Montego Bay, has been extended until 2 May 2018. The Jamaican government declared an additional state of emergency in St Catherine North State on 18 March, lasting 14 days. This is focused on Spanish Town, Linstead and Bog Walk. The measures in these two states allow the military to support the police in joint security operations in response to recent violence and shooting incidents.
• Sri Lanka – GOV.UK. On 17 March the government lifted the state of emergency imposed after recent violent clashes
• South Africa – CDC. There is an outbreak of listeriosis in South Africa. People usually become ill with listeriosis after eating contaminated foods. Travelers to South Africa, especially those with higher risk of infection, may wish to avoid certain foods to reduce their risk of infection.
• Nepal – GOV.UK.  There are reports that a local group has made threats of violence against businesses, and local and international schools in the Kathmandu Valley, particularly the Chandragiri Hills cable car attraction in Thankot; you’re advised to avoid using the cable car during March 2018 and remain vigilant if travelling in the area.
• Nepal – Government of Canada. On March 16, 2018, the U.S. Embassy in Kathmandu issued a Security alert advising American citizens that it “is aware of threats by a local group against the Chandragiri Hills Cable Car attraction through late March 2018. The same group has also threatened to extort and to engage in acts of violence against other private businesses, including local and international schools within the Kathmandu Valley.” Avoid using the Chandragiri Hills Cable Car in Thankot until the end of March 2018 and continue to exercise a high degree of caution in the Kathmandu Valley.

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.