Current Travel Warnings: Provided by International SoS
Algeria: Urban centres: Anticipate travel disruption, plan journeys avoiding gatherings associated with football tournament final on 19 July Tue, 16 Jul 2019 12:06:51 EDT
Members in urban centres, particularly the capital Algiers and Oran (Oran province), should plan journeys accounting for large gatherings, and associated travel disruption, around the final of the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) football tournament being held in Cairo (Egypt) on 19 July. The final, between Algeria and Senegal, will begin at 19.00 (local time). Celebratory gatherings can be expected if Algeria wins, which will be disruptive and should be avoided as a precaution. Five people were killed in a traffic accident in Jijel (Jijel province) on 15 July during celebrations to mark the Algerian team’s qualification for the final.
Algeria: Urban centres: Continue to avoid all gatherings as weekly anti-government protests liable to persist Tue, 16 Jul 2019 13:10:06 EDT
Members in the capital Algiers and other urban centresin the coming weeksshould anticipate and avoid further anti-government protests, which usually occur on Tuesdays (by students) and Fridays. There remains a lack of consensus between the government and civil society groups, and the country is at a political impasse following the expiration of interim president Abdelkader Bensalah’s mandate. No date for fresh elections or continued negotiations has been given. Separately, the authorities on 14 July arrested five suspected militants who were reportedly planning attacks on demonstrations.
Asia & the Pacific: Hong Kong: Avoid rallies planned for 16-17 July; expect heightened security Tue, 16 Jul 2019 05:59:44 EDT
Members in Hong Kong on 16-17 July should avoid rallies associated with the campaign against the controversial bill that would facilitate extraditions to mainland China (see our detailed alert). On 16 July, activists plan to gather at the New Town Plaza shopping centre in Sha Tin at 20.00 (local time). On 17 July, a protest is planned at the Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre in Wan Chai, where an annual book fair is taking place. Separately, a silent march is planned for 17 July from Chater Garden in the Central area to the Central Government Complex in the Admiralty area.
Burundi: Malaria Tue, 16 Jul 2019 05:56:38 EDT
Latest update: outbreak continues. A surge in malaria activity has been reported across the whole country. Malaria is consistently present throughout Burundi. It is spread through mosquito bites and can be fatal unless promptly treated. Travellers should seek medical advice prior to travel for an individual recommendation on preventive medication. Seek prompt medical attention if symptoms develop and inform them that you may have been in an area with malaria. Prevention is through the use of antimalarial medication (chemoprophylaxis) and mosquito bite avoidance.
Colombia: Narino department: Defer travel, minimise road movement until 18 July during armed strike by rebel group Tue, 16 Jul 2019 02:24:44 EDT
Members should defer essential travel to Narino department until 18 July due to movement restrictions imposed by the National Liberation Army (ELN) guerrilla group. The restrictions came into effect on 15 July as part of an armed strike marking the 55th anniversary of the group's founding. Members already in Narino should minimise unnecessary road journeys.
Comoros: Increase in measles cases Tue, 16 Jul 2019 08:45:59 EDT
Latest update: outbreak ongoing. An outbreak of measles has been reported. Measles is caused by a highly contagious virus that spreads from person-to-person via infected droplets. Outbreaks occur frequently in under-vaccinated populations. Common symptoms include fever, cough and a characteristic rash. Measles can result in serious complications, particularly when very young children, the elderly or pregnant women are infected. All travellers should ensure that they are fully immunised against measles.
Congo (DRC): Increase in cholera cases Tue, 16 Jul 2019 09:02:44 EDT
Latest update: ongoing outbreak. Cholera cases have been reported across several provinces. The disease spreads via contaminated food and water. Symptoms include vomiting and profuse, watery diarrhoea which can lead to severe dehydration. Travellers staying in quality accommodation with access to safe food and water are at low risk. Ensure food and water for consumption are safe, and consider vaccination if likely to encounter unsanitary conditions.
Congo (DRC): Monkeypox outbreak Tue, 16 Jul 2019 01:43:37 EDT
Latest update: ongoing outbreak.There is an ongoing outbreak of monkeypox in the country. Monkeypox is a rare viral disease present in the Democratic Republic of the Congo. People can contract the virus from an infected animal. They may be bitten or come into contact with an infected animal's skin, blood or body fluids. Infected people can pass on the disease to others. Prevent infection by following good hygiene measures and avoiding contact with animals.
Congo (DRC): Outbreak of Ebola virus in North Kivu and Ituri provinces Tue, 16 Jul 2019 12:39:27 EDT
Latest update: first case in Goma has died. An outbreak of Ebola continues to grow in the provinces of North Kivu and Ituri. Key response activities continue to be challenged but have progressively resumed despite ongoing security issues. International SOS is monitoring the situation closely. Ebola is spread by contact with the blood or other bodily fluids (including vomit and diarrhoea) of infected or dead people. Healthcare workers, household members and people participating in traditional funeral practices (touching the body) are at high risk. Continue to defer non-essential travel to affected areas. Prevent infection by paying strict attention to hygiene, and avoiding contact with blood and body fluids. Do not participate in traditional funerals. Do not go to health facilities where Ebola patients are being treated.
Côte d'Ivoire: Abidjan: Avoid opposition protests on 23 July as precaution (Revised) Mon, 15 Jul 2019 23:56:58 EDT
Members in the commercial capital Abidjan (Abidjan district) in the coming days should anticipate and avoid as a precaution demonstrations by opposition parties and civil society organisations. The civil society groups Indignant Coalition of Cote d'Ivoire (CICI) and Ivorian Citizen Alternative (ACI) will hold a sit-in protest from 07.00 (local time) on 23 July at the headquarters of the Independent Electoral Commission (IEC). The protests have been organised to demand reforms at the IEC and denounce recently introduced fees for obtaining national identity cards. Additional protests in other locations are likely.
Côte d'Ivoire: Rise in dengue cases Tue, 16 Jul 2019 07:07:59 EDT
Latest update: outbreak ongoing. An increase in dengue activity has been reported nationwide.The disease is spread by mosquitoes, and is present in both rural and urban areas. Dengue can cause a range of symptoms and has no particular treatment. Some people, especially those who have been infected before, get a more severe form that can lead to fatal complications. Although a vaccine is available in several locations, it is only recommended for people who have been infected with dengue in the past and are living or travelling in areas with high levels of dengue transmission. Prevent infection by avoiding mosquito bites.
Ecuador: Quito: Avoid protest, reconfirm routes during strike by taxi drivers on 17 July Tue, 16 Jul 2019 13:32:44 EDT
Members in the capital Quito on 17 July should avoid all gatherings related to a strike by taxi drivers over new government legislation affecting public transportation. Participating drivers will assemble at Arbolito Park at 08.00 (local time) and move to the Government Palace. Members should reconfirm transportation routes before setting out as a precaution and to minimise travel inconvenience.
Greece: Halkidiki peninsula: Anticipate disruption during ongoing clean-up operations in wake of freak storm (Revised) Mon, 15 Jul 2019 22:38:13 EDT
Members in the Halkidiki peninsula (Central Macedonia region) over the coming days should anticipate disruption following a freak storm late on 10 July. Heavy rain and strong winds in excess of 60 miles per hour (100kph) struck the region, with the most severe damage occurring along the waterfront between Kallikrateia and Nea Poteidaia (see map). Seven people, including six foreigners, were killed and more than 100 injured. With 80% of the peninsula left without electricity, the authorities declared a state of emergency and deployed troops to assist with clean-up operations. Members should reconfirm the status of routes and follow all official directives.
Honduras: Increased dengue activity Tue, 16 Jul 2019 00:01:39 EDT
Latest update: additional cases and fatalities reported. An increase in dengue activity has been reported. The disease is spread by mosquitoes, and is present in both rural and urban areas. Dengue can cause a range of symptoms and has no particular treatment. Some people, especially those who have been infected before, get a more severe form that can lead to fatal complications. Although a vaccine is available in several locations, it is only recommended for people who have been infected with dengue in the past and are living or travelling in areas with high levels of dengue transmission. Prevent infection by avoiding mosquito bites.
India: Mumbai: Anticipate traffic disruption, heightened security during funeral procession on 17 July Tue, 16 Jul 2019 10:07:22 EDT
Members in Mumbai (Maharashtra state) on 17 July should anticipate traffic disruption and heightened security along the route of a funeral procession. The funeral is for Raja Dhale, the founder of a pro-Dalit (the so-called 'untouchable' caste within the Hindu community) group, who died on 16 July. The procession will begin at 12:00 (local time) from his residence in Vikhroli East and end at the Chaityabhoomi crematorium in the Dadar area of the city. Disruption should be expected on Lal Bahadur Shastri Road, Jasmine Mill Road, Shahu Nagar Road, Bhagoji keer Road and Sant Dnyaneshwar Road.
India: Mumbai: March at Bandra Kurla Complex on 17 July to cause disruption; allow additional travel time Tue, 16 Jul 2019 04:26:20 EDT
Members in the commercial capital Mumbai (Maharashtra state) on 17 July should expect significant disruption in the Bandra Kurla Complex (BKC) area during a protest march. The Hindu nationalist Shiv Sena party is organising the rally to protest against alleged non-payment of crop insurance claims to farmers. Participants will march to an insurance company’s office in BKC. The event is likely to be well attended; members should allow additional time for journeys.
Indonesia: East Java, Bali provinces: Magnitude 5.7 offshore earthquake causes minor damage; follow official directives (Revised) Tue, 16 Jul 2019 03:25:28 EDT
A magnitude 5.7 offshore earthquake at 07.18 (local time) on 16 July caused minor damage in East Java and Bali provinces. Damage to property was reported from Badung, Buleleng, Gianyar (all Bali) and Banyuwangi (East Java) regencies, as well as Denpasar city (Bali). Operations at Bali’s Ngurah Rai International Airport (DPS) were very briefly suspended for runway safety assessment, and services soon normalised. Members in affected areas of East Java and Bali should continue to exercise caution and follow official directives.
Israel: Urban centres: Avoid further protests over fatal shooting of Ethiopian-Israeli teenager; next rallies on 16 July Tue, 16 Jul 2019 09:22:20 EDT
Members in urban centres in the coming days should anticipate and avoid further protests over the fatal shooting on 30 June of an Ethiopian-Israeli teenager by an off-duty police officer in Haifa (Haifa district). Fresh rallies are planned for 16 July (see More detail). Related protests occurred in Jerusalem on 15 July, after the accused police officer was released from house arrest on bail with reduced charges. Demonstrators gathered around the Knesset (parliament) building and attempted to disrupt light rail traffic on Jaffa Street. At least 13 people were arrested.
Japan: Increase in measles cases Tue, 16 Jul 2019 01:33:49 EDT
Latest update: outbreak ongoing. A significant increase in measles cases has been reported in some parts of the country, including the capital Tokyo. Measles is caused by a highly contagious virus that spreads from person-to-person via infected droplets. Outbreaks occur frequently in under-vaccinated populations. Common symptoms include fever, cough and a characteristic rash. Measles can result in serious complications, particularly when very young children, the elderly or pregnant women are infected. All travellers should ensure that they are fully immunised against measles.
Liberia: Urban centres: Avoid nationwide anti-government protests on 24 July Tue, 16 Jul 2019 14:59:30 EDT
Members in urban centres on 24 July should avoid nationwide anti-government protests, as a precaution and to minimise travel inconvenience. Participants of the so-called ‘#SavetheState' march will call for political reforms and condemn the government's perceived failure to address poor living standards. A previous related march in the capital Monrovia took place from Capitol Hill along Tubman Boulevard. The demonstrations are planned to coincide with official gatherings relating to Independence Day, in an attempt to deter the attendance of world leaders.
Malawi: Urban centres: Avoid gatherings related to disputed general election every Tuesday, Friday (Revised) Tue, 16 Jul 2019 04:40:18 EDT
Members in urban centres should avoid protests every Tuesday and Friday by the Human Rights Defenders Coalition over the disputed May general election. Demonstrations were due to start on 16 July, but were postponed to 19 July. Protesters are demanding that Malawi Electoral Commission (MEC) chairperson Jane Ansah resign over alleged voting irregularities. Outbreaks of unrest, as well as acts of arson and vandalism targeting political figures and institutions, have occurred during some recent rallies, highlighting the need for caution.
Mexico: Sinaloa state: Civilian casualties in shoot-out between military, criminals underscore HIGH travel risks, need to avoid non-essential journeys Tue, 16 Jul 2019 13:56:57 EDT
Members in Sinaloa state are reminded of the need for stringent precautions after two civilians were injured on 15 July during an armed confrontation between military forces and unidentified criminals in Guamuchil city. The incident occurred shortly after midnight along Highway 15 in the city’s Solidaridad neighbourhood. The armed group reportedly fired upon the military convoy as they conducted a patrol in the area. The assailants managed to escape following the attack, which demonstrates the significant incidental risks posed by violent crime in HIGH travel risk locations such as Sinaloa.
Mozambique: Cabo Delgado province: Fresh attacks reminder of persistent militancy in HIGH travel risk areas (Revised) Mon, 15 Jul 2019 23:58:22 EDT
Recent attacks attributed to Islamist extremist groups underline the persistent militancy risks in Cabo Delgado province. On 11 July, one person was killed and another injured in attacks on Malinde and Makulo villages (both Mocimboa da Praia district). On the following day, suspected militants ambushed the security forces near Namaneco village in the Quiterajo area (Macomia district). Two security personnel and five militants were killed in subsequent clashes. Journeys to Cabo Delgado's HIGH risk districts, including Mocimboa da Praia and Macomia, require a pre-travel threat assessment and pre-arranged security support.
Myanmar: Anticipate intermittent travel disruption during monsoon season until October Tue, 16 Jul 2019 12:36:27 EDT
Members in Myanmar should expect intermittent disruption to travel and essential services during the ongoing monsoon season, which will last until October. Heavy rainfall, flooding and associated landslides are expected to impact the entire country. Associated flash-flooding may also occur, significantly disrupting traffic along major roads and in urban centres. Members should therefore liaise with local contacts to ascertain the feasibility of journeys before setting out.
Nigeria: Introduction of new e-Yellow card for proof of yellow fever vaccination Tue, 16 Jul 2019 00:19:36 EDT
Latest information: e-Yellow cards are only required for Nigerian citizens and residents, not required for international travellers. The Nigerian Government has announced that from July 1st 2019, an "e-Yellow card" will be the only valid documented proof of vaccination against yellow fever for citizens and residents. An International Certificate of Vaccination or Prophylaxis (ICVP) issued outside Nigeria is still accepted for non-Nigerian citizens and non-Nigerian residents arriving in Nigeria. Proof of yellow fever vaccination is required for entry for anyone over 9 months of age (based on new WHO documentation 1 July 2019). In addition, vaccination is recommended for all travellers 9 months of age and older going to Nigeria. Anyone who is in Nigeria and will be vaccinated should ensure the vaccination is documented on the new e-Yellow card.
Pakistan: Karachi: Plan journeys bypassing political rally at Bagh-e-Jinnah on 21 July Tue, 16 Jul 2019 10:47:45 EDT
Members in Karachi (Sindh province) on 21 July should plan journeys bypassing Bagh-e-Jinnah during a rally by the Pak Sarzameen Party (PSP) as a precaution. The PSP has organised the event as part of its political campaign to improve the living conditions of Karachi residents within six months. Traffic disruption should be expected in the vicinity of the rally due to likely road diversions and the deployment of additional security force personnel.
Paraguay: Asuncion: Account for disruption due to ongoing strike by taxi drivers Tue, 16 Jul 2019 08:03:42 EDT
Members in the capital Asuncion on 16 July should anticipate travel disruption during a strike by taxi drivers to protest app-based ride-share services. The United Taxi Drivers union have claimed that road travel will be unimpeded, but members should have alternative transport plans in place and plan routes avoiding gatherings to minimise disruption.
Philippines: Luzon: Plan journeys accounting for potential disruption in northern areas due to passage of Tropical Storm Danas Tue, 16 Jul 2019 16:02:31 EDT
Members in northern provinces of Luzon island should plan journeys accounting for disruption over the next 24-36 hours during the passage of Tropical Storm Danas (known locally as Falcon). According to the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA), the weather system will bring moderate-to-heavy rain to Batanes and the north-eastern portion of Cagayan provinces. The agency has issued a Tropical Cyclone Warning Signal 2 (the second lowest on a five-tier scale) for these areas. The Metro Manila national capital region will experience light rainfall. Short-notice disruption to flights, particularly at Basco Airport (BSO, Batanes) and Cagayan North International Airport (LLC, Cagayan), is possible.
Puerto Rico (US): San Juan: Avoid anti-government rally on 17 July due to potential for unrest Tue, 16 Jul 2019 05:47:14 EDT
Members in the capital San Juan on 17 July should avoid an anti-government rally due to the potential for localised disturbances. Participants will march at 17.00 (local time) from El Capitolio to La Fortaleza (governor’s residence). Protesters are calling for the resignation of Governor Ricardo Rossello (see related report).
Saudi Arabia: Drone interceptions highlight need to minimise non-essential travel near strategic targets close to Yemeni border Tue, 16 Jul 2019 15:27:56 EDT
The authorities on 16 July confirmed that three drones launched by the Yemen-based Houthi movement towards Abha (Asir province) and Jizan (Jizan province) had been intercepted by Saudi-led coalition defences in Yemeni airspace. The drones were reportedly launched from Amran governorate in Yemen. The Saudi defences remain capable of intercepting most missiles and drones. Nevertheless, members should avoid non-essential travel to strategic locations within 68 miles (110km) of the border with Yemen in MEDIUM travel risk areas of Asir, Jizan, and Najran provinces.
Somalia: SPECIAL ADVISORY: Mogadishu: Avoid vicinity of explosion in Hawl-Waag district; account for staff Tue, 16 Jul 2019 07:56:15 EDT
Members in the capital Mogadishu on 16 July are advised to avoid the vicinity of a reported explosion in Hawl-Waag district in the coming hours. Reports indicate that the explosion targeted the offices of a telecommunications company and at least two people have been killed. Details are emerging; more to follow.
South Africa: Armed 'follow-home' robbery highlights violent crime risks, need to exercise vigilance Tue, 16 Jul 2019 04:55:23 EDT
An armed robbery on 14 July targeting foreign visitors travelling between OR Tambo International Airport (JNB) in Johannesburg (Gauteng province) and their accommodation highlights persistent violent crime risks. An investigation is ongoing and the police are yet to release more information. Local media suggest that a group of six criminals confronted the victims as their vehicle approached their accommodation and robbed them of personal belongings. The incident highlights the need for members to exercise heightened vigilance, keep a low-profile throughout their visit and adopt enhanced precautions during road travel.
South Africa: Cape Town: Plan journeys bypassing protests along Plein Street outside parliament on 16, 23 July Tue, 16 Jul 2019 02:20:03 EDT
Members in Cape Town (Western Cape province) on 16 and 23 July should anticipate localised disruption during pickets outside the parliament building. Supporters of the Friends of Cuba Society group will gather for an hour from 12.30 (local time) along Plein Street outside parliament. The gatherings have been organised to denounce US sanctions on Cuba. The protests are likely to pass off peacefully; members should avoid them to minimise localised delays.
South Korea: Urban centres: Anticipate disruption, avoid protests during nationwide strike by labour union on 18 July Tue, 16 Jul 2019 12:21:49 EDT
Members on 18 July should anticipate disruption and avoid all protests associated with a nationwide strikeby the Korean Confederation of Trade Unions (KCTU). Non-regular public sector employees will participate in the walkout being planned over labour reforms. There is potential for road travel disruption as highway toll workers will also observe the industrial action. Protests are planned at the National Assembly Building at 14.00 (local time) in the capital Seoul and the Metropolitan City Hall at 15.00 in Busan, in addition to several other urban centres (see More detail section). These are expected to be well attended.
Sudan: Monitor developments amid talks on tentative power-sharing agreement, continued protests Tue, 16 Jul 2019 11:58:25 EDT
Members on essential travel to Sudan should continue to monitor developments following a tentative power-sharing agreement announced on 5 July by representatives of the Transitional Military Council (TMC) and Forces of Freedom and Change (FFC) opposition coalition. Efforts to finalise the deal have been postponed several times, while protests continue across the country. The Sudanese Professionals Association (SPA) has called for fresh gatherings on 18 July near the military headquarters in the capital Khartoum to commemorate those killed since anti-government protests began in December 2018. Those in Sudan should continue to exercise caution and maintain robust, rapidly implementable escalation and stand-fast plans.
Tanzania: Dengue outbreak in Dar es Salaam and other areas Tue, 16 Jul 2019 01:23:22 EDT
Latest update: increased cases, including Arusha. Health authorities have declared an outbreak of dengue fever. The disease is spread by mosquitoes, and is present in both rural and urban areas. Dengue can cause a range of symptoms and has no particular treatment. Some people, especially those who have been infected before, get a more severe form that can lead to fatal complications. Although a vaccine is available in several locations, it is only recommended for people who have been infected with dengue in the past and are living or travelling in areas with high levels of dengue transmission. Prevent infection by avoiding mosquito bites.
Tuvalu: Dengue cases Mon, 15 Jul 2019 21:50:16 EDT
Latest update: outbreak ongoing. Cases of dengue fever have been reported. The disease is spread by mosquitoes, and is present in both rural and urban areas. Dengue can cause a range of symptoms and has no particular treatment. Some people, especially those who have been infected before, get a more severe form that can lead to fatal complications. Although a vaccine is available in several locations, it is only recommended for people who have been infected with dengue in the past and are living or travelling in areas with high levels of dengue transmission. Prevent infection by avoiding mosquito bites.
United Kingdom: London: Plan journeys bypassing rally against Brexit on 20 July to minimise delays Mon, 15 Jul 2019 22:41:42 EDT
Members in the capital London on 20 July should plan journeys bypassing a ‘March for Change’ rally to minimise delays. Participants will march at around 12.00 (local time) from Park Lane to Parliament Square (see map) to protest against the UK leaving the EU (known as 'Brexit'). The rally is likely to pass off peacefully and attract a large number of participants, leading to localised disruption in the city centre.
United States: Arkansas, Louisiana, Mississippi, Missouri, Tennessee: Travel to hurricane-affected areas can resume with precautions Tue, 16 Jul 2019 00:37:36 EDT
Travel to areas of Arkansas, Louisiana, Mississippi, Missouri and Tennessee states affected by the passage of former hurricane Barry can resume with precautions. Members should plan journeys accounting for residual disruption to travel and essential services. While some weather alerts related to Barry are still in place, the situation continues to improve and all curfews have been lifted. Members should continue to exercise caution if travelling through worst-affected areas and follow all directives issued by the authorities.
Zimbabwe: Bulawayo: Avoid High Court during hearings involving deputy mayor on 18, 22 July Tue, 16 Jul 2019 11:15:36 EDT
Members in Bulawayo are advised to monitor developments and avoid the High Court on 18 July and 22 July, when rulings are expected in two cases involving Tinashe Kambarami, the city’s deputy mayor. Kambarami has been charged with assaulting a civil servant and is also defending an application for his removal filed by a local civic group. During previous hearings on 15 July, additional police were deployed outside the court as local residents and a political party staged protests. Further protests and a heightened police presence can be expected around the court during future hearings.
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