011519 – 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

• Burkina Faso – GOV.UK. Latest update: Summary. On 31 December 2018, the President of Burkina Faso declared a partial state of emergency covering the whole of the Est and Sahel regions, the western provinces of Kossi and Sourou, the central-eastern province of Koulpélogo, the western province of Kénédougou and northern province of Lorum. This followed a terrorist attack in Sourou province on 27 December, which killed 10 gendarmes. The measure gives security forces extra powers to search homes and restrict freedom of movement. The state of emergency was extended on 11 January by Parliament for a further 6 months.
• Libya – UN . ‘Substantial civilian casualties’ in Derna, UN humanitarian chief ‘deeply concerned’.

Take Enhanced Precautions

Conflict and Terrorism

• Central African Republic – UN. Concerned with the security, humanitarian, human rights and political crisis within the country and its implications for the region, the UN Stabilization Mission in CAR, MINUSCA began operating in 2014 under Chapter VII of the UN Charter.
• Chile – GOV.AU. On 4 January 2019, an explosion at a bus stop in Santiago injured five bystanders. Be aware of your surroundings, exercise caution when using public transport and report suspicious behaviour or unattended packages to local authorities.
• Kenya – GOV.UK. Latest update: Summary. there are reports of an incident in the Riverside area of Nairobi; if you’re able to do so safely, consider leaving the area; if you’re caught up in the incident, turn any mobile phones or other devices to silent and do not put your location on social media; remain vigilant and follow the advice of local security authorities if they are present; this page will be updated as the situation develops.
• Nigeria – UN. Following an upsurge in violence in north east Nigeria, which was brought to global attention five years ago with the abduction by Boko Haram extremists of the Chibok schoolgirls, tens of thousands of innocent civilians continue to flee, prompting “grave concern” from the United Nations envoy there.
• Tajikistan – GC.CA. Latest update: Safety and security. Terrorism. There is a threat of terrorism. Even though terrorist groups are known to operate in the country, attacks are infrequent and mostly target Government of Tajikistan installations, including law enforcement and military facilities. Terrorist attacks could occur at any time. Targets could include: government buildings, including schools; police and military installations and personnel; places of worship; airports and other transportation hubs and networks; public areas such as tourist attractions, restaurants, bars, coffee shops, shopping centres, markets, hotels and other sites frequented by foreigners. Always be aware of your surroundings.
• United Kingdom – GC.CA. There is a threat of terrorism in Europe. Terrorists have carried out attacks in several European cities. In the United Kingdom, previous incidents have resulted in casualties. They include random violent incidents in public areas, such as knife and vehicle attacks as well as explosions. These incidents have occurred mainly in the London area but have also happened elsewhere. Further attacks in Europe are also likely. Targets could include: government buildings, including schools; places of worship; airports and other transportation hubs and networks; public areas such as tourist attractions, restaurants, bars, coffee shops, shopping centres, markets, hotels and other sites frequented by foreigners. Always be aware of your surroundings when in public places. Be particularly vigilant if attending sporting events and during religious holidays and other public celebrations, as terrorists have used such occasions to mount attacks.
• Uruguay – GC.CA. Latest update: Safety and security. ATMs explosions. Several ATM explosions have taken place since the beginning of 2018. They occurred mainly in Montevideo and Canelones, but other cities have also been affected. Be particularly cautious when using ATMs. Use ATMs located in well lit public areas or inside a bank or business.
• West Africa – UN. A rising number of attacks by extremist groups, using more sophisticated tactics, risk undermining progress in West Africa and the Sahel, the region’s UN envoy told the Security Council on Thursday.

Crime and Social Unrest

• Democratic Republic of the Congo – UN. There had been some “serious security incidents”, including violent protests in Kwilu province that have reportedly left at least twelve dead. Injuries, arrests and unverified deaths were also reported in Kisangani, the country’s third largest city, and several locations in Kasai province. Meanwhile a “tense situation” also prevails in several Kinshasa communes.
• Gabon – GC.CA. Latest update: Safety and security. Attempted coup. An attempted military coup failed on January 7, 2019. The situation remains volatile and unpredictable. There have been sporadic gunshots. A curfew is in effect in Libreville. Follow the directives of local authorities.
• Pakistan – GC.CA. On October 31, 2018, the Pakistani Supreme Court announced its verdict on a high profile case. Further proceedings on this case are pending, and could trigger demonstrations and civil unrest across the country. There is a risk of sectarian violence. Anti Western sentiments may also increase the threat to foreigners. Disruptions to traffic and public transportation may occur and may make movements difficult. Avoid areas where demonstrations and large gatherings are taking place. Avoid areas where Westerners congregate, such as places of worship (including churches) and markets. Maintain a high level of personal security awareness. Monitor local media for the latest information. Follow the instructions of local authorities.
• Tajikistan – GOV.UK. Latest update: Safety and security section (Gorno Badakhshan Autonomous Oblast (GBAO)) on 13 January a clash in Khorog between local youths and security forces resulted in the use of nonlethal weapons and 1 person was hospitalised; there’s the possibility of further unrest; if you’re travelling in the region, you should remain vigilant in public places and be alert to any security announcements by the Tajik authorities.
• Zimbabwe – GOV.AU. Due to worsening economic conditions there have been widespread disruptions, street blockades and violent protests in parts of the country including in Harare and Bulawayo. Avoid demonstrations and minimise travel around town. Monitor media for reports of planned or possible unrest.

Demonstrations

• Bahrain – GOV.UK. Latest update: Safety and security section (Demonstrations) and summary. There have been calls for unauthorised protests on 15 January 2019 in unspecified locations across the country. Demonstrations and protests take place regularly and can turn violent. You should be vigilant, avoid large crowds and demonstrations and be alert to local and regional developments.
• Bangladesh – GOV.UK. Latest update: Safety and security section (Political violence). factual update; on 8 January shots were fired during a demonstration in Dhaka; killing 1 person and injuring 2; 1 of whom was injured by a stray bullet; if you see a demonstration developing move away to a place of safety.
• Democratic Republic of Congo (Kinshasa) – GC.CA, GOV.AU. Presidential and legislative elections took place on December 30, 2018. Preliminary results were announced on January 10, 2019, and could be contested. The final results should be announced by January 24, 2019. Demonstrations, civil unrest and general strikes could occur at any time until and following the announcement of the official results. Avoid areas where demonstrations and large gatherings are taking place. Follow the instructions of local authorities. Don’t attempt to cross road blockades, even if they appear unattended. Plan to have adequate water and food supplies in the event that main supply points are temporarily inaccessible. Monitor local media for the latest information.  Follow the instructions of local authorities.
• France – GC.CA. Important demonstrations by the Yellow Vests movement have been taking place in Paris and other parts of the country since November 17, 2018. Large demonstrations often occur on Saturdays. Acts of vandalism and violence have occurred. Traffic disruptions have also occurred due to calls to block major transport routes (roads, train stations and airports). Disruptions to public services and closures of various sites usually open to the public (businesses, museums, tourist attractions) have taken place. Avoid areas where demonstrations and large gatherings are taking place. Follow the instructions of local authorities. Monitor local media for the latest information.
• Germany – GOV.AU, GOV.UK. Domestic and international air travel in Germany will be disrupted due to industrial action on Tuesday 15 January between 0200 and 2000 local time. Security guard strikes will affect passenger operations at many airports including Frankfurt, Leipzig, Bremen, Hanover and Hamburg. Industrial action in Munich is expected to affect staff screening only, however this may also impact airport operations. Resulting delays may affect all airports and it is likely to take more than a day for schedules to normalise. You should check the status of your flight with your airline before travelling to the airport
• Guatemala – GC.CA. Latest update: Safety and security demonstrations.  Demonstrations have been taking place since January 8, 2019. They are expected to continue, across the country, in the coming days. Avoid areas where demonstrations and large gatherings are taking place. Follow the instructions of local authorities. Monitor local media for the latest information.
• Mongolia – GC.CA. Latest update: Safety and security. Demonstrations. Large demonstrations in Suhkbaatar Square could take place in the coming days. Avoid crowds near Government House.  Avoid areas where demonstrations and large gatherings are taking place. Follow the instructions of local authorities. Monitor local media for the latest information.
• Panama – GC.CA. Latest update: Safety and security. World Youth Day will take place in Panama City from January 22 to 27, 2019. The event is expected to draw a large number of visitors and could lead to disruptions to traffic and public transportation. Crowding at key sites could also attract pickpockets and bag snatchers. If attending any related events: expect enhanced security, including security screening and restrictions on bags and backpacks; be aware of your surroundings; don’t leave belongings unattended; follow the instructions of local authorities.
• Tunisia – GC.CA. A general public sector strike will be held nationwide on January 17, 2019. Even peaceful demonstrations can turn violent at any time. Expect disruptions to traffic and public transportation. Be aware of your surroundings. Don’t try to cross roadblocks. Monitor local news Follow the instructions of local authorities.
• Zimbabwe – GC.CA, GOV.UK.  Demonstrations, civil unrest, and general strikes have been taking place in parts of the country since January 13, 2019, due to the increase in the cost of fuel.  On 14 January 2019 there was widespread disruption, including violent protests, in many areas of Harare and Bulawayo. Expect an increased police presence in Harare, including in its Central Business District, and in Bulawayo. Demonstrations can occur with little notice. 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. Don’t attempt to cross road blockades, even if they appear unattended. Follow the instructions of local authorities. Always carry photo identification such as your passport with you. Monitor local media for information on ongoing demonstrations.

Law and Culture

• Antigua and Barbuda – GC.CA. Latest update: Laws and culture. LGBTQ2 travellers. Antigua and Barbuda law prohibits sexual acts between individuals of the same sex. LGBTQ2 travellers should carefully consider the risks of travelling to Antigua and Barbuda.
• Grenada – GC.CA. Latest update: Laws and culture. LGBTQ2 travellers. Grenada law prohibits sexual acts between individuals of the same sex. LGBTQ2 travellers should carefully consider the risks of travelling to Grenada.
• Lunar New Year – CDC. The Year of the Pig begins on February 5, 2019, and many people will travel to Asia to celebrate the Lunar New Year. If you plan to travel to Asia to visit friends or relatives or participate in the festivities, you can take some simple precautions to help you stay safe and healthy.
• Saudi Arabia – GOV.UK. Latest update: There’s a heightened risk of terrorism against aviation. Additional security measures have been in place on flights departing from Saudi Arabia to the UK since March 2017. You should co-operate fully with security officials. Restrictions on carrying large electronic devices in the aircraft cabin on these flights have now been lifted. For more information and advice about what items you can take into the cabin on your flight from Saudi Arabia to the UK, contact your airline or travel company.
• Sweden – GOV.UK. Latest update: Safety and security section (Road travel). In Sweden everyone travelling in a car is required to wear a seat belt. Children who are shorter than 135cm must use a special protective device – either a baby car seat, child car seat, booster seat or booster cushion. All long-distance buses are equipped with seat belts, which passengers are required to use by law. Bicycle helmets are mandatory for children under 15 (but not for adult cyclists). It’s illegal to use a mobile phone in your hand when driving.
• Uganda – GOV.UK. Latest update: Local laws and customs section. smoking is prohibited in all public places, workplaces, transport and other outdoor places within 50 metres of a public place; electronic cigarettes and shisha (water pipe tobacco) are banned; Health section. There are regular outbreaks of cholera.
• Venezuela – GOV.UK. Latest update: Summary and Safety and security section (Political situation). President Maduro will start a new presidential term on 10 January 2019; you should remain vigilant and stay informed during this time.

Natural Disasters and Climate

• Austria – GOV.UK. Summary. A high risk of avalanches exists in parts of Austria. There could also be associated travel disruption. Follow the advice of local authorities and your tour operator.
• Indonesia – GC.CA. Latest update: Natural disasters and climate. On December 22, 2018, a tsunami hit the districts of Pandeglang and Serang, in the province of Banten, and the districts of South Lampung, Tanggamus, and Pesawaran, in the province of Lampung. The tsunami caused many casualties, as well as important damage to infrastructure, including hotels and restaurants. Monitor local media for the latest developments and follow the instructions of local authorities.
• Northern Marianas – GC.CA. Latest update: Natural disasters and climate. Super Typhoon Yutu passed through the Northern Marianas islands on October 25, 2018. The typhoon brought excessive rainfall and violent winds, causing severe damage to infrastructure. Recovery efforts are ongoing; however, essential services are available in many areas. Most major hotels are welcoming guests. Contact your travel agent or tour operator to determine if the situation will disrupt travel arrangements. Exercise caution and follow the instructions of local authorities.
• Papua New Guinea – GOV.UK. Latest update: Monsoon season in Papua New Guinea runs from November to May; the National Weather Service has forecast heavy rain and strong wind for the 2019 season; this could lead to flooding and landslides

Health

• Democratic Republic of the Congo – WHO. Poliomyelitis. WHO’s International Travel and Health recommends that all travelers to polio affected areas be fully vaccinated against polio. Residents and visitors staying for more than four weeks in affected areas should receive an additional dose of oral polio vaccine (OPV) or inactivated polio vaccine (IPV) within four weeks to 12 months of travel. Efforts should also be made to ensure that individuals who received vaccinations are provided the appropriate documentation to record their vaccination status. At this time, WHO does not recommend any restrictions on travel and/or trade to the Democratic Republic of the Congo on the basis of the information available for the current cVDPV2 outbreaks.
• Europe – ECDC. Influenza.  Influenza transmission in Europe shows a seasonal pattern, with peak activity during the winter months. During week 1 in 2019, influenza activity continued to increase in the European Region. Of the individuals sampled after presenting with influenza like illness or acute respiratory infection at sentinel primary healthcare sites in Europe, 44.6% tested positive for influenza viruses.
• Europe – ECDC. Measles. Measles cases in the EU/EEA primarily occur in unvaccinated populations in both adults and children. Large outbreaks with fatalities are ongoing in countries that had previously eliminated or interrupted endemic transmission.  In 2018, 35 deaths were reported in EU countries.
• Mexico – CDC. Recently, some US residents returning from Tijuana, Baja California, Mexico, were diagnosed with infections caused by an antibiotic-resistant form of Pseudomonas aeruginosa bacteria. All of the travelers with this particular infection had an invasive medical procedure performed in Tijuana. Most (but not all) of them had weight-loss surgery. About half of those infected had their surgery done at the Grand View Hospital. Based on information provided by the CDC, the Mexican government has closed the Grand View Hospital until further notice. CDC recommends that travelers to Tijuana, Mexico, not have surgery at the Grand View Hospital until the Mexican government can confirm that the drug-resistant form of Pseudomonas aeruginosa bacteria is no longer there.
• Middle East – ECDC. MERS CoV.  During the month of December, five MERS CoV cases were reported by Saudi Arabia. All but one cases were male. Four were primary cases and one was a household contact. Of the primary cases, three reported camel contact.
• Nigeria – WHO. Yellow fever. On 22 November 2018, the World Health Organization was informed of a cluster of suspected Yellow fever (YF) cases and deaths in Edo State, Nigeria.  WHO recommends vaccination against YF for all international travellers more than nine months of age going to Nigeria, as there is evidence of persistent or periodic YF virus transmission. Nigeria also requires a YF vaccination certificate for travellers over one year of age arriving from countries with risk of yellow fever transmission. WHO does not recommend any restrictions on travel or trade to Nigeria on the basis of the information available on this outbreak.

Ebola News

• Democratic Republic of the Congo – ECDC. Ebola. Since the previous CDTR, the Ministry of Health of the Democratic Republic of the Congo has reported 22 additional cases. As of 9 January 2019, according to the Ministry of Health of the Democratic Republic of the Congo, there have been 630 Ebola virus disease cases (582 confirmed, 48 probable), including 385 deaths (337 in confirmed and 48 in probable cases), since the beginning of the outbreak.
• Democratic Republic of the Congo – WHO. Ebola virus disease. WHO reviewed its risk assessment for the outbreak and the risk remains very high at the national and regional levels; the global risk level remains low.
• Democratic Republic of the Congo – CDC. Ebola virus disease.  There is an outbreak of Ebola in the North Kivu (Kivu Nord) and Ituri provinces in the the northeastern part of the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC). The outbreak is in a part of the country identified by the U.S. State Department as a “do not travel” zone because of armed group activity and major outbreaks of violence targeting civilians. The armed conflict and violence in the outbreak area is hampering response activities including early identification of cases, and monitoring of “contacts” (people who may have been exposed to Ebola). Travelers to this area could be infected with Ebola if they come into contact with an infected person’s blood or other body fluids. Travelers should seek medical care immediately if they develop fever, headache, body aches, sore throat, diarrhea, weakness, vomiting, stomach pain, rash, or red eyes during or after travel.
• Rwanda – GOV.UK,  GC.CA.  Latest update: Safety and security section (Local travel). The Ministry of Health in Rwanda has established new policies for every traveller wishing to enter Rwanda from Ebola affected areas of DRC. This includes health care and humanitarian workers and volunteers. You should provide advance notice of your intention to travel to Rwanda to the Rwandan Ministry of Health; you will need to comply with quarantine procedures for a period of 21 days before onward travel within or through Rwanda is permitted.  Follow instructions of local authorities if you are travelling to Rwanda from the DRC.

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.