On March 11, the World Health Organization officially classified the COVID-19 outbreak as a pandemic, indicating that every location is likely to be affected, though the exact timing and impact cannot be predicted. Non-essential international and domestic travel should be deferred due to the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on the global logistical environment, healthcare systems in all locations, the global economy, the potential for second-order security issues in the short, medium and longer term, as well as the risk of infection with COVID-19. A new virus, SARS-CoV-2, is the cause of COVID-19 disease. The WHO is still learning about the virus and the illness it causes. The disease is spreading from person to person, through contact with infected respiratory droplets. The disease is a mild illness for most; however, it can be severe or fatal to high risk groups.
For more information on confirmed cases of COVID-19 globally, refer to the latest Situation Report on the World Health Organization (WHO) website by clicking here. For more general information on the outbreak and WHO’s response, click here.
TRAVEL RESTRICTIONS IMPLEMENTED WORLDWIDE
A number of countries have relaxed some restrictions that aimed to contain the spread of COVID-19. This includes the relaxation of restrictions on internal movement, reopening of businesses and a resumption of some domestic and international travel. Nevertheless, strict measures remain in place, or are being reimposed, in some locations where there is increasing case activity. In some locations all travel should continue to be deferred, while for others essential travel can resume after undertaking an individual risk assessment of the COVID-19 situation and entry restrictions, including the potential for sudden changes.
Countries around the world are implementing entry restrictions in an effort to contain the spread of COVID-19. For the most upto-date information on current entry restrictions, please visit IATA’s “Government Measures Related to Coronavirus (COVID19)” website by clicking here.
FROSCH TRAVEL RESOURCES
AMERICAS
Through November 4, travelers in Honduras and Nicaragua should defer travel to areas in the path of Hurricane Eta. The Category 4 storm (second-highest on a five-tier scale) is expected to make landfall near Puerto Cabezas, Nicaragua on November 3. Travelers in affected areas should stand fast in a secure location.
UNITED STATES
Travelers should monitor developments and follow all official directives related to the COVID-19 pandemic. Most states have begun to lift restrictions on mobility and non-essential businesses, though some have halted reopening plans due to a significant increase in COVID-19 cases within at least 40 of the 50 states. The varied impact of the outbreak and local pressure by constituents has led state governors to reopen businesses and lift stay-at-home orders; however, some have issued mandates on wearing masks in public places and quarantining when returning from certain states with high case numbers. More than 3.8 million cases of COVID-19 have been confirmed in the United States, with increased activity in the South and West.
CALIFORNIA
Travelers in California continue to reconfirm the status of routes and follow official directives amid multiple ongoing wildfires which have prompted a State of Emergency and the closure of several major routes. Mandatory Evacuation Orders have also been issued for multiple counties. At least 32 people have so far been killed, and more than 300,000 others evacuated. While some of the fires have been largely contained, residual disruption remains possible in affected areas
COLORADO and WYOMING
Travelers in Colorado and Wyoming should continue to plan journeys accounting for disruption due to multiple ongoing wildfires which have prompted the closure of several major roads, as well as mandatory Evacuation Orders and Pre-Evacuation Notices for multiple counties. Travelers in affected areas should reconfirm the status of routes and follow all official directives.
ELECTION DAY
On November 3, travelers should anticipate disruption and avoid protests in urban centers associated with the November 3 General Election due to the risk of unrest. Demonstrations on and after Election Day are likely regardless of the results. Clashes between rival political supporters and police are possible, and officers may use tear gas and other measures to disperse unruly crowds. Any such unrest can pose incidental risks to bystanders. Heightened security can be expected near federal and local government buildings, political rallies, demonstrations, and other key locations. In addition, local authorities may institute curfews or mobility restrictions in the event of significant or violent protests.
COLOMBIA
Travelers in Choco department in the coming days should anticipate retaliatory violence by the leftist guerrilla National Liberation Army (ELN) following the killing of one of the organization’s leaders, Andres Vanegas Londono, also known as Uriel. Uriel was killed by security forces on October 25 in Barrancocito village in Novita municipality during a joint operation involving various branches of the armed forces. Uriel’s death is significant due to his wellknown involvement in the group’s operations. Travelers should avoid all non-essential journeys to areas with high guerrilla activity, which includes rural parts of Choco.
DOMINICAN REPUBLIC
On November 4, travelers in Santo Domingo should anticipate disruption associated with demonstrations outside the National Congress. The event is being held over issues related to pension. Police used tear gas to disperse previous demonstrations over the issue.
MEXICO
The Jalisco New Generation Cartel (CJNG) on October 29 established several roadblocks on main highways in Veracruz state, as well as set fire to vehicles and raided local businesses. The action was undertaken in retaliation for recent raids by authorities that resulted in the seizure of cartel safe houses and the arrest of personnel. The incident highlights the need to avoid non-essential journeys to Veracruz, where the risks associated with violent crime remain high.
PERU
On November 5, travelers should anticipate disruption during rallies linked to a planned nationwide strike and plan journeys accordingly. In Lima, demonstrators are due to gather in Plaza San Martin at 10:00 AM local time. The action has been called by the CGTP trade union center over various issues, including the cost of living, the minimum wage, and recent reforms to collective bargaining laws. Strike-related rallies are also likely in other urban centers.
ST LUCIA
An outbreak of dengue fever has been declared in St Lucia. Dengue is spread mainly by mosquito bites. It can cause a range of symptoms. Fever, headache, and a rash are common. Sometimes, dengue is severe and can have fatal complications. Infants, pregnant women, and those who have had dengue before are most likely to get severe infections. Travelers should prevent infection by avoiding mosquito bites.
ST VINCENT & THE GRENADINES
An outbreak of dengue fever has been declared, with several fatalities reported. Dengue is spread mainly by mosquito bites. It can cause a range of symptoms. Fever, headache, and a rash are common. Sometimes, dengue is severe and can have fatal complications. Infants, pregnant women, and those who have had dengue before are most likely to get severe infections. Travelers should prevent infection by avoiding mosquito bites.
AFRICA & THE MIDDLE EAST
MIDDLE EAST
Travelers in the Middle East over the coming days should avoid further demonstrations in response to controversial comments made on October 21 by French President Emmanuel Macron over caricatures of the Muslim prophet Muhammad. Related protests have taken place in several countries over the issue. Further gatherings are likely, particularly coinciding with celebrations for the Prophet Muhammad’s birthday on October 29. While the threat of terrorism varies by country, travelers should minimize time around potential militant targets as a precaution and monitor local sentiments, particularly in regard to their nationality.
NORTH & WEST AFRICA
Travelers in North Africa and West Africa, particularly Francophone countries, in the coming days should anticipate protests over remarks by French President Emmanuel Macron. The remarks were made in relation to controversial caricatures of the Muslim prophet Muhammad. Further calls for protest and boycotts of French goods are likely in the coming weeks. These are particularly likely around the prophet’s birthday on October 29 and All Saints’ Day (Toussaint) public holiday on November 1. While the threat of terrorism varies by country, travelers should minimize time around potential militant targets and monitor local sentiments, particularly regarding their nationality.
ALGERIA
Travelers in main cities over the coming days should monitor developments linked to a November 1 referendum on constitutional changes. The proposed amendments come amid a COVID-19 outbreak in the country and a longrunning “Hirak” protest campaign. Hirak activists have criticized the constitutional changes as inadequate, and related rallies have been held in Bejaia and Setif provinces. In-country travelers should exercise caution on polling day due to the potential for gatherings and other security incidents. The vote comes amid reports that President Abdelmadjid Tebboune has tested positive for COVID-19 and is receiving treatment abroad.
CAMEROON
Cases of circulating vaccine-derived poliovirus type 2 (cVDPV2) have been confirmed. Polio is a contagious viral illness that can cause paralysis and death. It is spread through contaminated food or water, or directly from an infected person. The circulating vaccine-derived poliovirus (cVDPV) strains can emerge in under-vaccinated populations. Travelers are advised to prevent infection by ensuring polio vaccination is up to date, including a booster, and selecting safe food and water.
CHAD
Cases of circulating vaccine-derived poliovirus type 2 (cVDPV2) have been detected in several regions of the country. Polio is a contagious viral illness that can cause paralysis and death. It is spread through contaminated food or water, or directly from an infected person. The circulating vaccine-derived poliovirus (cVDPV) strains can emerge in under-vaccinated populations. Travelers are advised to prevent infection by ensuring polio vaccination is up to date, including a booster, and selecting safe food and water.
CONGO (DRC)
All travel to rural areas of Ituri and North Kivu provinces should be deferred due to frequent attacks by armed groups. On November 1, at least 21 people were killed by suspected members of the Allied Democratic Forces (ADF) in the village of Lisasa. Several others were kidnapped and a health facility was destroyed. The incident follows an attack on October 28 in Baeti which resulted in the destruction of a church and around 18 deaths. Separately, an offensive launched on October 24 by fighters from the Co-operative for the Development of the Congo (CODECO) militia in Bunia resulted in around 20 deaths.
COTE D’ IVOIRE
Through November 7, travelers should minimize movement following the release of provisional results of the October 31 Presidential Election. The Electoral Commission announced that Alassane Ouattara had won with 94% of the vote. Opposition groups have rejected the results and called for protests despite an ongoing ban on public gatherings, which has been extended through November 15. They have also created a National Council for a civil transition. Significant unrest has been reported across the country since the election. Several people have been killed in Yamoussoukro district, as well as in the Goh, Indenie and Gontougo regions.
ETHIOPIA
Throughout November, travelers in Oromia state should exercise caution after gunmen killed at least 54 people, reportedly ethnic-Amharas, on November 2 in the West Wollega Zone. Several houses were also burned. The attack follows the withdrawal of federal security forces from the area. Authorities have blamed the attack on the Oromo Liberation Army, an armed splinter group of the Oromo Liberation Front, but these claims cannot be substantiated. Further attacks are likely, which would pose incidental risks to bystanders.
IRAQ
Through November 6, travelers in Baghdad and southern governorates should anticipate further anti-government protests. On November 1, security forces reportedly used tear gas to disperse protesters at Bahriya Square in Basra. Scuffles between anti-government demonstrators and security forces were also reported during a gathering at Tahrir Square in Baghdad. Activists are likely to call for further demonstrations. All public gatherings should be avoided due to the risk of local unrest.
LEBANON
Travelers in Beirut in the coming hours should avoid an ongoing protest near the French Embassy over remarks made by French President Emmanuel Macron on October 21 on controversial cartoons of the Muslim prophet Muhammad. The demonstrations are well attended, and unconfirmed reports suggest demonstrators and security forces have scuffled, posing incidental risks to bystanders. Heightened security and traffic disruption have been reported in the area.
MALAWI
On November 3, travelers in Lilongwe should anticipate disruption during an ongoing demonstration in the Capital Hill area, and plan journeys accordingly. Demonstrators calling for an end to violence against women are marching to the Ministry of Gender. The march is most likely to pass off peacefully but may cause minor disruption in the vicinity.
MALI
Through November 6, travelers in urban centers should expect disruption and avoid all protests related to an ongoing public sector strike. Unions are calling for pay increases and for the government to free all hostages currently detained by armed groups. A peaceful demonstration occurred at Place de l’Independance in Bamako on October 15, though local disturbances cannot be ruled out during further gatherings.
Additional cases of polio reported with more regions affected. Polio is a contagious viral illness that can cause paralysis and death. It is spread through contaminated food or water, or directly from an infected person. The circulating vaccine-derived poliovirus (cVDPV) strains can emerge in under-vaccinated populations. Travelers are advised to prevent infection by ensuring polio vaccination is up to date, including a booster, and selecting safe food and water.
NIGERIA
Travelers in Lagos beginning July 24 should expect significant travel disruption during planned repair work on the Third Mainland Bridge and plan journeys using alternative routes. The Lagos State Government announced the partial closure of the bridge until January 2021 for maintenance works. Travelers should anticipate increased traffic congestion and a potential surge in crime on congested routes during the closure of the bridge.
Travelers traveling via Abuja’s Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport (ABV) in the coming days should reconfirm flights, amid disruption caused by intervention from federal regulators. The Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria on October 27 closed airline counters at the airport over the non-payment of debts. Local reports indicate this has disrupted flights to various domestic locations, including Lagos and Port Harcourt.
On November 3, travelers in Lagos should avoid the Lekki Free Trade Zone Road amid protests and associated unrest. Reports indicate that police have fired tear gas to disperse protesters. The demonstration began at the nearby Dangote Oil Refinery over employee salaries.
SAMOA
Travelers should defer travel to Samoa amid ongoing restrictions related to the COVID-19 pandemic. Authorities have extended an ongoing State of Emergency until at least November 22. International flights also remain suspended until further notice; however, authorities have approved a tentative schedule for repatriation flights from October 30 to December 11 for citizens stranded abroad.
SAUDI ARABIA
Authorities have confirmed the arrest of an individual following the stabbing of a security guard outside the French Consulate in Jeddah at around 8:00 AM local time. The incident comes amid heightened regional tensions over controversial statements made by French President Emmanuel Macron in the wake of the killing of a teacher by an Islamist extremist in France. While there is an underlying risk of terrorism in Saudi Arabia, security forces maintain the capabilities to deter most threats; however, the development highlights the risk of a one-off incident – such as a stabbing or shooting – by radicalized individuals during periods of heightened tension. Travelers should exercise caution and minimize time spent around potential militant targets as a precaution.
SOMALIA
Through November 6, travelers in Somalia should remain vigilant and avoid any further gatherings linked to recent comments by French President Emmanuel Macron regarding caricatures of the Muslim prophet Muhammad. On October 28, hundreds of people marched in Mogadishu and other urban centers in protest of the remarks, setting fire to the French flag and expressing support for a global boycott of French products. Additional protests are likely if the controversy persists, particularly following an October 31 interview Macron gave to the Qatar-based television channel al-Jazeera.
SOUTH SUDAN
Cases of circulating vaccine-derived poliovirus type 2 (cVDPV2) have been detected in a few states. Polio is a contagious viral illness that can cause paralysis and death. It is spread through contaminated food or water, or directly from an infected person. The circulating vaccine-derived poliovirus (cVDPV) strains can emerge in under-vaccinated populations. Travelers are advised to prevent infection by ensuring polio vaccination is up to date, including a booster, and selecting safe food and water.
SUDAN
Throughout November, travelers in Khartoum and other urban centers should anticipate and avoid further antigovernment protests over socio-economic issues. Protesters gathered over the weekend of October 31-November 1 in Atbara, and previously on October 26 and 29 in Khartoum and other cities, in protest of the latest hike in fuel prices. The protesters are denouncing worsening socio-economic conditions, including bread and fuel shortages and inflation. Police may forcibly disperse demonstrations, which poses incidental risks to bystanders. Travelers should monitor developments and avoid areas experiencing unrest.
TANZANIA
Through November 6, travelers in Tanzania should anticipate and avoid further protests over the results of the October 28 General Elections due to the risk of disruption and unrest. The National Electoral Commission (NEC) has declared incumbent President John Magufuli of the Chama Cha Mapinduzi (CCM) party the winner, with 85% of the vote; however, Presidential candidate Tundu Lissu of the Chadema party and other opposition figures have rejected the results and accused the ruling party of vote-rigging. The opposition has called for mass demonstrations to demand fresh elections. Security forces may forcibly disperse related gatherings, posing incidental risks to bystanders.
TURKEY
Travelers in Turkey should monitor developments and anticipate possible protests in the coming days after a French satirical magazine published a series of controversial cartoons depicting Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan. The development comes after French President Emmanuel Macron made controversial comments over caricatures of the Muslim prophet Muhammad, which sparked protest in multiple Muslim-majority. Turkish citizens are likely to organize protests against the cartoons and comments, though these are expected to pass off peacefully, but may cause local disruption.
Through November 4, travelers on the western coast of Turkey should continue to exercise caution and expect disruption following a magnitude 7.0 offshore earthquake near Izmir province on October 30. At least 69 people have reportedly been killed, and 949 others injured, though the casualty toll may rise as rescue and recovery operations continue. Since the initial earthquake, 987 aftershocks have been registered, 43 of which were magnitude 4.0 and above. Authorities have placed restrictions on non-essential travel to Izmir to prioritize emergency services. Travelers should reconsider journeys to the province until the situation has stabilized.
UGANDA
On November 3, travelers in Kampala should avoid an ongoing march that started from the Magere suburb north of the city en route to Kyambogo. Police have used tear gas to disperse participants, who are marching in support of opposition politician and 2021 presidential contender Robert Kyagulanyi Ssentamu. Roads in the city center and other areas of Kampala have reportedly been blocked.
Throughout November, travelers in urban centers should anticipate and avoid demonstrations due to the continued crackdown on the opposition National Unity Platform (NUP). On October 29, two NUP members were arrested following a police raid at the party’s offices in Jinja town. This follows an October 14 crackdown on the NUP offices in l Kampala. Opposition MP and 2021 Presidential candidate Robert Kyagulanyi Ssentamu and several other members were detained during the operation. These incidents have the potential to incite protests, particularly in Jinja and Kampala.
ASIA & THE PACIFIC
Travelers should anticipate protests in the coming weeks in Muslim-majority areas of the region, particularly Pakistan and Bangladesh. Demonstrations are being organized against the recent alleged Islamophobic comments by French President Emmanuel Macron. Macron’s comment came after the beheading of a teacher in France by a lone assailant. The attack has been linked to the cartoons depicting the Muslim prophet Muhammad by the satirical French magazine Charlie Hebdo. Travelers should monitor local developments closely and avoid all demonstrations as a precaution.
AUSTRALIA
Through November 6, travelers in Melbourne should anticipate and avoid further protests over COVID-19 measures. Despite the recent lifting of a citywide lockdown, hundreds of protesters gathered at Parliament House on November 3 to demand further easing of pandemic-related restrictions. Police used pepper spray to disperse the rally and dozens of participants were arrested. The organizers have called for further protests in the coming days, potentially at the Shrine of Remembrance. Any scuffles between protesters and police during these gatherings may pose incidental risks to bystanders.
BANGLADESH
Through November 6, travelers in urban centers, particularly Dhaka, should continue to anticipate and avoid protests over recent remarks by French President Emmanuel Macron due to the risk of unrest. A related march on November 1 by the Islami Andolan Bangladesh (IAB) party to the French Embassy was dispersed by police near the National Press Club area. Further protests are possible elsewhere in the country, particularly after Friday mid-day prayers, and are likely to be well-attended. Significant traffic disruption and a heightened security force presence should be expected, particularly around the diplomatic enclave in Dhaka.
CAMBODIA
Travelers should continue to anticipate intermittent disruption to travel and essential services during the ongoing monsoon season. Flash flooding has been reported in 20 of the country’s 25 provinces and Phnom Penh. The worsthit provinces include Banteay Meanchey, Battambang, Kampong Thom, Kandal and Pursat provinces, as well as southwestern areas of Phnom Penh. Meanwhile, National Road 4 connecting to Sihanoukville has also been damaged. Further flash floods and landslides are possible, especially in provinces along the Mekong River.
CHINA
In-country travelers can resume normal travel to Qingdao following the easing of COVID-19 restrictions in the city. On October 28, authorities in Beijing announced that persons traveling to the city from Qingdao no longer need to provide a negative nucleic acid test within seven days before arrival. This follows the recent lowering of the government’s risk level for Qingdao’s Loushanhou community from ‘medium’ to ‘low’ (lowest on a three-tier scale), and subsequent lifting of movement restrictions in the city. Nevertheless, travelers should continue to confirm any remaining requirements at their original location and destination when planning travel to and from Qingdao.
INDIA
Travelers in urban centers should expect increased security and associated disruption ahead of and during the Hindu festival of Diwali on November 14. Large crowds can be expected at transport hubs and markets, which also increase the risk of petty crime. Militancy and communal unrest also pose risks during the festival period. Authorities may impose short-notice COVID-19-related measures on gatherings and movement.
Through November 10, travelers in Bihar state should anticipate disruption related to the State Assembly Elections. Longstanding political and communal tensions are likely to be exacerbated during this period and may result in unrest. Heightened security, including additional police checkpoints, can be expected around polling stations and related rallies. These will likely be well attended and cause significant traffic disruption. Travelers should avoid all demonstrations as a precaution.
Travelers should continue to avoid ongoing protests over new farm laws. Farmers’ groups in Punjab state have eased an ongoing rail blockade to allow goods trains to pass until November 5. The opposition Indian National Congress plans to hold protests on October 31 at party headquarters in all districts and nationwide demonstrations on November 5. In addition, the All India Kisan Sangharsh Co-ordination Committee farmers’ organization plans to hold protests on November 26-27 in New Delhi. Further details are currently not available. Farmers’ groups and opposition parties claim the laws weaken government support for the agricultural sector.
INDONESIA
Travelers should plan journeys accounting for disruption caused by heavy rainfall and flooding. The Meteorology, Climatology and Geophysical Agency (BMKG) has forecast that intensified rainfall will impact the entire country through November. Such conditions have resulted in flooding and landslides. These have affected hundreds of people and damaged infrastructure in several areas, including Jakarta. Travelers should reconfirm the feasibility of journeys before setting out.
Travelers in Jakarta and other urban centers should continue to avoid all demonstrations over the controversial “Omnibus Law” due to the risk of unrest. Labor and student groups claim the legislation degrades labor rights and environmental protection. Protests over the bill are likely to continue intermittently in the coming weeks, including on days surrounding any potential Constitutional Court hearings on the issue. While most associated demonstrations are likely to remain small, labor groups-led rallies are likely to be well-attended. Police may forcibly disperse demonstrations and implement traffic diversions near protest venues.
Through November 4, travelers in urban centers should avoid further protests over recent controversial remarks made by French President Emmanuel Macron due to the risk of unrest. On November 4, demonstrators in Bandung affiliated with the Islamic Defenders Front group will march from Gedung Sate to Gedung Merdeka after mid-day prayer. Heightened security and traffic disruption can be expected in the vicinity of the event. While previous related protests have been largely peaceful, local scuffles between demonstrators and security forces remain possible.
KYRGYZSTAN
Throughout November, travelers in urban centers should continue to exercise caution, monitor developments, and avoid all gatherings related to forthcoming Parliamentary and Presidential Elections. On October 22, Parliament passed a law delaying the re-run Parliamentary Election until at least June 1, 2021, to permit constitutional reforms to be enacted. The next Presidential Election is currently scheduled for January 10, 2021. Widespread unrest has diminished following the October 15 resignation of former President Sooronbay Jeenbekov. Newly-appointed Prime Minister Sadyr Japarov has also assumed the role of interim President until elections are held.
MALAYSIA
Travelers should continue to defer travel to Malaysia, where COVID-19-related restrictions remain in force. Authorities have extended a Conditional Movement Control Order (CMCO) in Labuan federal territory until November 13. Separately, the CMCO will remain in place in Kuala Lumpur and Putrajaya federal territory, as well as Sabah and Selangor states, until November 9.
MONGOLIA
Travelers should continue to defer all travel to Mongolia, where restrictions related to the COVID-19 pandemic remain in force. Border closures and the suspension of international commercial flights have been further extended until at least December 31. While options to depart the country remain limited, special chartered repatriation flights are exempt from restrictions. Arriving passengers must undergo 21-day quarantine at a government-designated facility. Business activities, public events, and school classes at all levels have resumed.
MYANMAR
Travelers should monitor developments and avoid political gatherings ahead of the November 8 General Elections. The campaign period is under way and will conclude on November 6. Early voting for the elderly is ongoing until November 5 due to COVID-19 concerns. Despite COVID-19-related restrictions on public gatherings, large crowds have repeatedly gathered during campaign rallies. Local clashes between supporters of rival parties and incidents involving ethnic armed groups have occurred in recent weeks.
All travel to northern townships of Rakhine should be deferred, and travel to Minbya and Pauktaw townships should be limited to essential purposes following recent incidents in these areas. On October 29, at least nine people were injured when artillery shells fired by security forces exploded in Minbya and Pauktaw. On October 28, at least one person was killed, and two other people were injured when the military fired at a boat carrying aid to refugees in Rathedaung.
PAKISTAN
Travelers in urban centers should continue to avoid protests by both ruling and opposition parties. Anti-government protests organized by the Pakistan Democratic Movement (PDM) are set to continue through January 2021, while the ruling Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) can be expected to occasionally stage counter-rallies. Traffic disruption and heightened security measures can be expected around protest locations.
PHILIPPINES
Through November 5, travelers on Luzon Island should continue to minimize non-essential movement to areas worst-affected by Tropical Storm Goni. Goni is currently moving southwest and exited the Philippine Area of Responsibility on November 3. Following Goni’s passage, significant damages caused by flooding and landslides have been reported in affected areas. In the Bicol region, at least 20 people have been killed due to weather-related incidents.
SOUTH KOREA
Health authorities have enhanced monitoring of the seasonal influenza vaccination program. A number of “adverse events,” including some fatalities, have been reported. Investigations so far have shown the deaths are highly likely to be caused by underlying health issues including cancers, liver, lung and heart disease. The local vaccination programs are proceeding. Seasonal flu vaccination is generally recommended for most people. Consult your doctor for an individual recommendation.
SRI LANKA
Authorities have imposed indefinite curfews across Colombob and Batticaloa districts, as well as in the Katunayake area of Negombo City following a surge in COVID-19 cases. Travel to Bandaranaike International Airport (CMB), serving Colombo, remains permitted for those with scheduled flights. Katunayake Free Trade Zone employees are also still permitted to commute, provided they present proper identification. Affected areas in Colombo include the central business district of Fort, Borella, Dam Street, Maligawatta, Pettah and Welikada. Travelers should continue to closely monitor the situation as further restrictions are possible, including elsewhere in the country.
THAILAND
On November 3, travelers in Bangkok should avoid a demonstration against the Ministry of Digital Economy and Society. Anti-government protesters plan to gather at 4:00 PM local time at the Chaeng Wattana Government Center. Local traffic disruption is possible and further protests may be organized at short notice.
TONGA
Travelers should continue to defer all travel to Tonga amid ongoing COVID-19-related restrictions. Authorities extended the State of Emergency until at least 8:00 PM local time on November 23. Meanwhile, a nationwide nightly curfew remains in place from 12:01 AM to 5:00 AM. Gatherings are limited to 50 people indoors and 100 people outdoors.
VIETNAM
Through November 7, travelers in central provinces should continue to maintain flexible itineraries ahead of and during the passage of Tropical Storm Goni. The weather system is forecast to make landfall by November 6 over Quang Ngai and Binh Dinh provinces. Goni is then expected to weaken into a tropical depression as it moves inland. Heavy rain and strong winds during Goni’s passage will exacerbate ongoing flooding and landslides in central Vietnam. The National Center for Hydro-Meteorological Forecasting (NCHMF) maintains a Disaster Risk Warning “Level Three” (third-highest on a five-tier scale) for the storm. Flight disruption is possible at Da Nang (DAD) and Chu Lai (VCL) international airports.
WALLIS & FUTUNA
An outbreak of dengue fever has been declared on Futuna. Dengue is spread mainly by mosquito bites. It can cause a range of symptoms. Fever, headache, and a rash are common. Sometimes, dengue is severe and can have fatal complications. Infants, pregnant women, and those who have had dengue before are most likely to get severe infections. Travelers should prevent infection by avoiding mosquito bites.
EUROPE
Travelers in Armenia and Azerbaijan should continue to monitor developments amid ongoing clashes along the administrative boundary between the disputed territory of Nagorno-Karabakh and the rest of Azerbaijan. A fourth ceasefire was announced on October 30, when Armenia and Azerbaijan agreed to avoid targeting civilian areas; however, as with previous ceasefires, both sides continue to accuse each other of breaching the agreement. The risk of further clashes along the administrative boundary and the international Armenia-Azerbaijan border remains heightened. Isolated incidents in other areas are also possible. Non-essential travel to these areas should be deferred.
AUSTRIA
On November 3, travelers in Vienna should minimize movement in the city center, where a security operation is ongoing following fatal shootings. Gunfire was first reported on Seitenstettengasse shortly after 8:00 PM local time on November 2, followed by shootings in five other locations. Four people and a suspected gunman were killed, while 17 people, including a police officer, were injured. It is unclear whether any other attackers are at large. Search operations are continuing and a major police deployment remains in place in the city center. Authorities are treating the incident as terrorism-related.
BELARUS
Travelers should continue to exercise caution and avoid all protests calling for the resignation of President Alexander Lukashenko, fresh elections, and the release of political prisoners. Sviatlana Tsikhanouskaya, who considers herself to be the winner of the disputed August 9 Presidential Election, had issued an ultimatum for Lukashenko to resign by October 25; however, his refusal to do so has prompted a nationwide strike since October 26. Security forces are likely to continue to disperse demonstrators forcibly. Indiscriminate arrests remain possible.
BULGARIA
Travelers in Sofia and other urban centers in the coming days should anticipate and avoid protests demanding the resignation of Prime Minister Boyko Borissov. Related daily demonstrations have occurred for more than three months. Some of these gatherings have resulted in clashes between participants and police. Large protests have been dubbed the “Great People’s Uprisings,” and are more likely to attract associated disturbances. All demonstrations should be avoided as a precaution.
FRANCE
Through November 8, travelers in France should exercise caution following a series of attacks and security incidents. On October 31, a priest was shot and seriously injured in an attack outside a church in Lyon. This follows a fatal knife attack on October 29 in Nice, as well as “false alarms” initiated by the discovery of suspicious packages. The stabbing incident is believed to have taken place in response to President Emmanuel Macron’s remarks over controversial caricatures of the Muslim prophet Muhammad. While the threat of terrorism remains low, travelers should exercise vigilance around potential targets.
GEORGIA
Through November 6, travelers in Tbilisi and other urban centers should monitor developments and avoid gatherings related to Parliamentary Elections held on October 31. Preliminary results from the Central Election Commission (CEC) indicate the ruling Georgian Dream party has obtained almost 50% of the vote, compared to 27% secured by the largest opposition party, United National Movement. Several opposition parties have said they will not accept the result; protests were held in Tbilisi on November 1. Further gatherings are likely in the coming days and should be avoided due to the potential for incidental unrest.
GREECE
Travelers in Greece in the coming hours should exercise caution after a magnitude 7.0 earthquake struck at approximately 1:51 AM local time. The tremor originated six miles north of Samos Island at a depth of six miles and was felt as far as Athens. Damage and injuries have been reported on Samos, as well as flooding from a tsunami in Vathy. The government has advised residents to avoid coastal areas and move to high ground as further tsunamis are possible.
ITALY
On November 3, travelers in Milan can resume movement around Piazza Ascoli following a police operation. Authorities had closed off the location in response to a reported bank robbery and a related hostage situation. The vicinity of the bank remains cordoned off. The incident occurred at 8:35 AM local time. According to local reports, the hostages are unharmed and police are looking for the suspects who earlier fled the scene.
MOLDOVA
Travelers in Chisinau and other urban centers over the coming days should anticipate and avoid protests linked to the November 1 Presidential Election. Among the eight candidates, the front-runners are incumbent President Igor Dodon and former Prime Minister Maia Sandu. Their perceived political leanings – pro-Russia and pro-EU respectively – have proven to be a significant source of tension. While potential protests are expected to pass off peacefully, such events may cause local disruption amid ongoing COVID-19-related restrictions on gatherings.
SPAIN
Travelers in Madrid should plan journeys accounting for disruption during environmental protests on November 1-6. The events, organized by the Extinction Rebellion environmental activist group, will likely involve roadblocks and public transport disruption.
Travelers in urban centers should avoid protests over COVID-19-related restrictions due to the risk of local unrest. Recently, several disruptive demonstrations have occurred across the country, including Barcelona, Granada, Malaga, Bilbao and Vitoria-Gasteiz. On October 31, protesters erected barricades along the Gran Via and Puerta del Sol in Madrid and clashed with police
UKRAINE
Travelers in Kyiv on November 3 should anticipate disruption during a demonstration from 9:00 AM local time outside the Verkhovna Rada (parliament). Participants are protesting against the adoption of two taxation bills, which will come into effect January 1, 2021, which protesters say would negatively affect small businesses. While the demonstration is expected to pass off peacefully, local traffic disruption is possible. During a similar protest in May, participants blocked roads in the city center.
UNITED KINGDOM
Travelers should defer travel to areas classified as very high risk on a three-tier alert system or under lockdown due to stringent COVID-19 restrictions. Lancashire, Liverpool City region, Greater Manchester, and South Yorkshire are at the highest level. Wales has entered a ‘firebreak lockdown’ that will last until November 9. Essential travel to other parts of the UK can proceed following an assessment of the COVID-19 situation and entry restrictions, as well as the potential for sudden changes.
