070219 – 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

• Saudi Arabia – U.S. Department of State – Exercise increased caution in Saudi Arabia due to terrorism and the threat of missile and drone attacks on civilian targets. Do not travel within 50 miles of the border with Yemen due to terrorism and armed conflict.
• Sudan – GCCA – Due to political and economic tensions, demonstrations and civil unrest have been ongoing in many parts of the country, notably in Khartoum, Omdurman, Gedarif, Atbara, Dammer, Wad Madani, Port Sudan. Protests intensified in Khartoum following a military coup d’état that took place on April 11, 2019. On June 3, 2019, security forces used violence to clear protest sites in Khartoum and other towns throughout the country. This resulted in many casualties. Although the situation has eased somewhat, tensions remain high. The security situation remains unpredictable and could deteriorate quickly. Khartoum International Airport may be subject to reduced operations and periods of closure at short notice. Since June 3, 2019, Internet access, is blocked countrywide for all mobile devices and most cable services. Voice and SMS messaging are generally available on mobile phones. Traffic and transportation disruptions are likely in affected areas. Roads, including to Khartoum International Airport, may be blocked. Plan your movements carefully and avoid areas where demonstrations and large gatherings are taking place. Avoid non essential travel to Sudan due to the unstable security situation throughout the country. If you are in Sudan for non essential reasons, consider leaving by commercial means if it is safe to do so.
• Tunisia – GCCA – Avoid all travel to the following areas, due to recurring counter terrorism operations. the governorate of Kasserine including the Chaambi Mountain National Park area, Mount Mghila, located between the governorates of Kasserine and Sidi Bouzid, the forest located northwest of the city of Jendouba and the forest located west of Ain Draham, in the governorate of Jendouba, Mount Orbata, located in the governorate of Gafsa (east of the city of Gafsa, between El Ksar and Sened), Within 30 km of the borders with Algeria, except for the tourist cities of Tabarka, Nefta, Tamerza, Chebika, Mides and Ain Draham, Within 40 km of the border with Libya in the governorates of Medenine and Tataouine, The militarized zone in Tataouine Governorate that lies south of, but does not include, the towns of Dehiba and El Borma. On June 27, 2019, two suicide bombings occurred in downtown Tunis, resulting in several injuries.
• Albania – GCCA – Avoid non essential travel to the city of Lazarat, where Albanian state police and armed marijuana growers have in the past engaged in violent altercations and where police assistance and protection are limited.
• Congo – GOV.UK – The Foreign and Commonwealth Officer (FCO) advise against all travel to within 50km of the border with the Central African Republic in Likouala region; the FCO advise against all but essential travel to the Boko, Kindamba, Kinkala, Mayama, and Mindouli districts of the Pool region and the Mouyondzi district of Bouenza region with the exception of the region and city of Brazzaville.
• Saudi Arabia – GOV.UK -The FCO advise against all but essential travel to Abha International Airport and its grounds, located in Asir province; updated information on recent drone attacks.

Crime and Social Unrest

• Myanmar – GCCA – Avoid non essential travel to the following areas, due to the risk of serious civil unrest at Paletwa Township in Chin State, Kachin State, Rakhine State, except for the tourist resort of Ngapali and travel between the resort and Thandwe airport, northern Shan State.

Natural Disasters and Climate

• Papua New Guinea – GOV.UK – Mount Ulawun Volcano in West New Britain province erupted on 26 June; villages closest to the volcano have been evacuated; parts of the New Britain Highway have been cut off by lava flow; all flights into Hoskins airport have been cancelled indefinitely; you should check with your travel provider or airline before travelling.

Kidnapping

• Maurutania – GCCA – Avoid all travel to northern and eastern Mauritania due to the risk of banditry and kidnapping. This includes the area east of the Zouérat Ouadane Tidjikja Kiffa Sélibali line, the entire region of Tiris Zemmour, areas within 25 km of the borders with Algeria, Mali and Western Sahara and a military zone with restricted civilian access. Avoid non essential travel to Mauritania due to the threat of terrorism, particularly against Western interests.

Take Enhanced Precautions

Conflict and Terrorism

• Syria – UNNews – The heads of 11 global humanitarian organizations warned on Thursday that the embattled rebel held province of Idlib in Syria, stands on the brink of disaster, with three million civilian lives at risk, including one million children.
• Bosnia Herzegovina – U.S. Department of State – Terrorist groups continue plotting possible attacks in Bosnia Herzegovina. Terrorists may attack with little or no warning, targeting tourist locations, transportation hubs, markets/shopping malls, local government facilities, hotels, clubs, restaurants, places of worship, parks, major sporting and cultural events, educational institutions, airports, and other public areas.  Minefields and land mines are present throughout Bosnia Herzegovina. While suspected hazardous areas are normally clearly marked, several people are killed or injured each year.
• Saudi Arabia – U.S. Department of State – Exercise increased caution in Saudi Arabia due to terrorism and the threat of missile and drone attacks on civilian targets.
• Sri Lanka – U.S Department of State – Terrorists may attack with little or no warning, targeting tourist locations, transportation hubs, markets, shopping malls, government facilities, hotels, clubs, restaurants, places of worship, parks, major sporting and cultural events, educational institutions, airports, hospitals, and other public areas. The U.S. government has limited ability to provide emergency services to U.S. citizens in Sri Lanka due to the security environment.
• Colombia –  GCCA – Since the beginning of February 2019, violent protests and clashes have been taking place near the border with Venezuela, including in the city of Cúcuta. Avoid the area.
• Saudi Arabia – GCCA – Missiles and drones have been launched from Yemen into Saudi Arabia, most of which have been intercepted and destroyed by Saudi air defence systems. The majority of these events occur close to the Yemen border, however some have occurred in cities such as Riyadh, Abha and Yanbu. Urban areas, military, oil and public facilities, such as airports, may be targeted by these missiles and drones, as was the case at Abha International Airport in June 2019. This type of event may continue to occur and the situation remains unpredictable. Given the significant range of recent strikes Saudi Arabia and the Red Sea are at risk. Missile and drone interceptions may cause scattered debris or fragments. Seek shelter during these events, stay away from doors and windows and follow the instructions of local authorities. If you encounter debris or fragments don’t get close to or touch them, move away from them immediately, contact local authorities.
• Tunisia – GOV.UK – Terrorists are very likely to try to carry out attacks in Tunisia and there have been a number of attacks in recent years. A state of emergency, in effect since a suicide attack on a police bus on 24 November 2015, has been extended several times, most recently on 5 June 2019 by one month. You should be vigilant at all times and follow the advice of local security officials, including in and around religious sites. On 27 June 2019, there were 2 suicide bombings targeting security personnel in central Tunis; 3 people, including the perpetrators, were killed.
• Iran – GOV.UK – Many areas of the Caspian Sea and Persian Gulf are highly sensitive politically. The waters around the islands of Abu Musa and the Tunbs in the southern Persian Gulf are particularly sensitive and are militarised. Mariners should not attempt to dock at all or sail into waters around these islands without express permission from the Iranian authorities. You should maintain a high state of awareness and be alert to local and regional tensions which may affect your route. Vessels operating in the Gulf of Oman, Northern Arabian Sea, Gulf of Aden and Bab El Mandeb regions may be at increased risk of maritime attack.
• Pakistan – GOV.AU – Tensions between India and Pakistan have reduced but could rise again with little notice. Due to these tensions, some international flights to and from Islamabad and Lahore that fly over eastern Pakistan remain suspended. Contact your airline for the latest information.

Crime and Social Unrest

• Albania – U.S. Department of State – Municipal elections in Albania were scheduled to be held on June 30, 2019. Recent localized incidents of violence have targeted election officials and voting materials, raising the prospect of additional violence or other disturbances on Election Day, the days leading up to it, and through vote counting at counting centers.
• Honduras – U.S. Department of State – Violent crime, such as homicide and armed robbery, is common. Violent gang activity, such as extortion, violent street crime, rape, and narcotics and human trafficking, is widespread. Local police and emergency services lack sufficient resources to respond effectively to serious crime.
• France – GCCA – France is hosting the 2019 FIFA Women’s World Cup from June 7 to July 7, 2019. Games take place in nine cities across the country. Crimes such as thefts typically increase around major sporting events. Tourists are often targets. Post game celebrations may take place during the World Cup. They may turn violent with little or no notice. If you are planning to travel to France during this time make your travel arrangements (accommodation, transportation and purchase of sporting event tickets) well in advance using genuine and reliable sources. exercise caution and remain aware of your surroundings at all times, use only ATMs in well lit public areas or inside banks, avoid demonstrations, monitor local media to stay on top of the current situation, follow the advice of local authorities.
• Chile – GCCA – The number of armed assaults has increased significantly since the beginning of 2019. Tourists have been attacked, even during the daytime. Be particularly careful in the area of Cerro Alegre in Valparaíso, in Cerro San Cristóbal park, north of Santiago, in all other parks in the Santiago area. Residential breakins and robberies occur regularly, and are on the rise in the Santiago Province communities of Las Condes, Lo Barnechea and Vitacura. Be aware of your surroundings at all times, Avoid walking after dark, If you are attacked, do not resist and give the aggressor the coveted object.

Demonstrations

• Colombia –  GCCA -Ongoing protests by taxi drivers against Uber drivers have caused serious traffic disruptions in Bogotá and other major cities.
• Senegal – GCCA – Strikes and demonstrations are common in larger cities. 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.
• Togo – GCCA – Demonstrations may occur. There are tensions throughout the country over the political situation, which is particularly tense in big cities, notably in Lomé and Sokodé. 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 the latest information.
• Georgia – GOV.UK – Following the large scale demonstration in front of Parliament on the evening of 20 June, there are further planned demonstrations every evening outside Parliament on Rustaveli Avenue in Tbilisi; there may also be a march along Rustaveli Avenue on Saturday 29 June, demonstrations in the towns of Kutaisi and Batumi and potentially elsewhere.
• Kyrgyzstan – GOV.UK – Following parliamentary revocation of former President Atambayev’s immunity, reports in the Kyrgyz media suggest large numbers of people are gathering around the home of former President Atambayev in the Koy Tash Area South of Bishkek; you should avoid all demonstrations and continue to monitor travel advice for updates on any further developments.
• Algeria – GOV.UK – Country wide demonstrations and other forms of protest are continuing; you should take precautions for your personal safety, avoid political gatherings and demonstrations and take local advice.
• Hungary – GOV.UK – The Budapest Pride March will take place on 6 July; you should take care if you’re planning to attend the march as counter demonstrations are possible; you should follow the instructions of local authorities who are policing the event.
• Mauritania – GOV.UK – Following Presidential elections on 22 June, provisional results issued by the Electoral Commission indicate former Armed Forces Chief, Mohamed Ould Ghazouani won. Opposition candidates have contested the result while opposition supporters have clashed with police. Final results should be confirmed within 10 days of election day. Demonstrations in Nouakchott have led to confrontations with security forces; tear gas has been used and the situation remains tense. Avoid political gatherings and demonstrations, monitor developments closely, and follow the advice of local authorities.
• Guatemala – GOV.AU – The second round of presidential elections to be held on 11 August 2019. Expect Protests during the election period. Avoid demonstrations and public gatherings.
• Nepal – GOV.AU – Politically motivated demonstrations can occur at short notice. Avoid protests and other public gatherings and monitor media for the latest update.

Health

• Europe – ECDC – During the West Nile virus infection transmission season, expected to be from June November 2019, ECDC monitors the occurrence of West Nile virus infections in EU/EEA Member States and EU neighbouring countries and publishes weekly epidemiological updates. No human case or equine outbreak has been reported so far in 2019.
• Peru – ECDC – In 2019, the Peruvian Ministry of Health has detected an unusual number of cases of acute neurological syndrome thought to be Guillain Barré syndrome. The cases are widespread in several regions across the country. In 2019 and as of 22 June 2019, Peru has reported 575 Guillain Barré syndrome cases since the beginning of the year, a twofold increase compared with 2018.
• Brazil, Malaysia, Philippines, Vietnam – ECDC – These countries have been reported as the largest number of cases of Dengue in 2019. Almost all reporting countries in Asia have observed an increase of cases compared with last year.

Law and Culture

• Zimbabwe – GCCA – Dual citizenship is legally recognized in Zimbabwe. Your ability to receive consular services may be limited while you’re there. You may also be subject to different entry/exit requirements.

Natural Disasters and Climate

• Indonesia – GDACS – The drought has lasted for 2 months. Drought indicators suggest anomalies typical of severe to extreme events. The Drought alert level is Orange.
• India – GDACS – The drought has lasted for 4 months. Drought indicators suggest anomalies typical of severe to extreme events. The Drought alert level is Red.
• Philippines – GDACS – The drought has lasted for 8 months. Drought indicators suggest anomalies typical of severe to extreme events. The Drought alert level is Orange.
• India, Sri Lanka – GDACS – The drought has lasted for 6 months. Drought indicators suggest anomalies typical of severe to extreme events. The Drought alert level is Red.
• Angola, Botswana, Namibia, South Africa, Zambia, Zimbabwe – GDACS – The drought has lasted for 8 months. Drought indicators suggest anomalies typical of severe to extreme events. The Drought alert level is Red.
• Kenya, South Sudan, Tanzania, Uganda – GDACS – The drought has lasted for 4 months. Drought indicators suggest anomalies typical of severe to extreme events. The Drought alert level is Red.
• Bangladesh, China, India, Laos, Myanmar, Thailand, Vietnam – GDACS – The drought has lasted for 7 months. Drought indicators suggest anomalies typical of severe to extreme events. The Drought alert level is Orange.
• Belize, Guatemala, Honduras, Mexico – GDACS – The drought has lasted for 4 months. Drought indicators suggest anomalies typical of severe to extreme events. The Drought alert level is Orange.
• Zimbabwe – GCCA – Eastern Zimbabwe experienced severe flooding due to tropical cyclone Idai in March 2019. Some areas may remain inaccessible due to washed out roads. There may continue to be disruptions to the following essential services like transportation, power distribution, water and food supply, telecommunications networks, emergency services, medical care.
• Switzerland, Italy, Spain, France – GOV.UK – Extreme temperatures are forecast in the last week of June; authorities have issued advice on sensible precautions to take. During a heatwave you should drink water regularly and avoid strenuous activity and alcohol. These temperatures may bring an increased risk of forest fires in some areas; check on the outbreak of fires with the local civil protection authority.

Other

• Namibia – GCCA – The Consulate of Canada in Windhoek is temporarily closed.
• Eritrea – GCCA – Due to the closure of many of Eritrea’s water purification and bottling plants, there is a generalized drinking water supply problem. Plan to have adequate water supplies. Ensure that your emergency kit is complete.
• Peru – GOV.UK – Due to construction works, from Friday 5 to Sunday 7 July, water will be cut in some districts of Lima and Callao; cistern tanks will be made available; further information is available on the SEDAPAL website.
• Ethiopia – GOV.UK – Travellers to Bahir Dar and surrounding areas are currently advised to retain a low profile and follow the advice of local authorities; roads may be closed at short notice; internet connections, including mobile data, may be intermittent.
• Zimbabwe – GOV.UK – As of 24 June 2019, the only legal tender in Zimbabwe is the “Zimbabwe Dollar”; there is a shortage of physical cash and it’s currently not possible to make cash withdrawals using an international bank card; you should check with your tour operator or hotel what payment methods will be accepted.
• Eritrea – GOV.UK – There are currently drinking water supply problems being experienced across Eritrea due to the closure by the Eritrean Government of many of the water purification and bottling plants; you should be aware of this shortage when planning your visit.
• Chile – GOV.UK – If you’re visiting the Elqui Valley and/or the wider Coquimbo region on 2 July for the Solar Eclipse, you should be aware that the main road to the Elqui Valley (Road 41) has a high accident rate. Local authorities advise visitors to avoid this road on 2 July as they are expecting 350,000 visitors and it will be closed in the morning for 3 hours between La Serena and Vicuña. You should wear a pair of special eclipse glasses (with a CE Kitemark) to view the eclipse.

Kidnapping

• Mozambique – GOV.UK – Due to the presence of groups with links to Islamic extremism, there is a threat of kidnap in Mozambique. Westerners are viewed as legitimate targets, including those engaged in tourism, humanitarian aid work, journalism or business sectors. If you’re kidnapped, the reason for your presence is unlikely to serve as a protection or secure your safe release.

Ebola News

• Democratic Republic of the Congo – UNNews – The vital work of tracing people infected with deadly Ebola virus disease in north east Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) is progressing, despite evidence of “several” massacres in the affected area earlier this month, the UN said on Friday.
• Democratic Republic of the Congo – ECDC – Since the previous CDTR and as of 26 June 2019, the Ministry of Health of the Democratic Republic of the Congo has reported 94 additional confirmed Ebola cases. During the same period, 70 deaths were reported. Among the new reported cases in the past week, six are healthcare workers. So far, there has been no local transmission reported in Uganda. Ninety six contacts are still under follow up, all asymptomatic so far. Seventeen contacts have completed 21 days of follow up.
• Democratic Republic of the Congo – WHO – The Ebola virus disease (EVD) outbreak in the North Kivu and Ituri provinces continues at a stable pace this week. Although response operations were temporarily interrupted in Beni following two days of insecurity in the surrounding areas, operations have largely resumed. However, in the town of Musienene, violent threats persist against healthcare workers (HCW) and local security forces providing assistance to the response efforts. Furthermore, response activities in Kambau health area, Manguredjipa health zone were also suspended following security incidents.  Of growing concern this week, are the current hotspots of Mabalako, particularly the Aloya health area, and Mandima. Other areas experiencing a similar resurgence in EVD cases after a period of prolonged absence include Komanda and Masereka. The last assessment concluded that the national and regional risk levels remain very high, while global risk levels remain low.

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.