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
TROPICAL STORM ZETA
Over the coming days, travelers in western Cuba and Mexico’s northern Yucatan peninsula, as well as in Cayman Islands and Jamaica, should anticipate disruption during the passage of Tropical Storm Zeta. On its current trajectory, Zeta is forecast to pass south of western Cuba early on October 26, proceeding towards the northern Yucatan peninsula later in the day. The weather system is forecast to intensify into a hurricane before it moves over the Yucatan Peninsula late on October 26. Heavy rain and strong winds can be expected in affected areas.
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.
WILDFIRES
Several wildfires across the west coast are impacting air quality. Polluted air can cause symptoms such as wheezing, coughing, shortness of breath, and irritation of the eyes and nose. Young children, the elderly, pregnant women, and people with underlying heart and lung disease (high-risk groups) are particularly vulnerable. To lessen the risk of potential health problems, travelers are advised to reduce exposure by decreasing time and physical activity outdoors. COVID-19 is circulating, and separate evacuation centers are available if anyone has symptoms of COVID19.
CALIFORNIA
Travelers in California reconfirm the status of routes and follow official directives due to multiple ongoing wildfires. These 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 31 people have been killed, and around 250,000 others evacuated.
Travelers in California state should anticipate outages through October 27 due to weather conditions conducive to wildfire activity. The California Independent System Operator (CAISO), which oversees the state’s power grid, has issued an extreme fire warning, which will see CAISO systemically cut power to certain regions of California. Approximately 361,000 customers in 36 counties will be experiencing blackouts while the extreme fire conditions persist.
CANADA
Authorities have extended the closure of the US-Canada border to non-essential travel (including recreation and tourism purposes) through November 21 because of the COVID-19 pandemic. Cross-border freight movement is still permitted. Canadian authorities have taken additional measures amid reports of US Nationals entering the country on non-essential journeys. All travel to Canada should be deferred, unless coming directly from the US for essential purposes or otherwise exempt from COVID-19-related restrictions.
On October 31, travelers in Toronto should plan journeys bypassing protests at 12:00 PM local time at YongeDundas Square. “The Line” activist group will hold the demonstrations against restrictions linked to the COVID-19 pandemic. The rallies are expected to pass off peacefully but are likely to cause local traffic disruption.
CHILE
Travelers should anticipate and avoid further anti-government demonstrations ahead of the October 25 constitutional referendum. Flashpoints in urban centers include major public squares and government buildings. Recent gatherings have resulted in transportation disruption, vandalism, and confrontations between participants and police. On October 18, demonstrators in Santiago set fire to buildings, looted local businesses, and clashed with police. Authorities have announced that 40,000 security force officers will be deployed nationwide in the run-up to the vote.
FRENCH GUIANA (FRANCE)
An increase in cases of Mayaro virus has been reported. Mayaro virus (also called Mayaro fever) is consistently present in French Guiana and is spread by mosquito bites. Mayaro virus can cause a range of symptoms including fever, chills, muscle pains, body aches, joint pain, rash and swollen lymph glands. There is no specific treatment and no vaccine. Travelers are advised to prevent infection by avoiding mosquito bites.
MEXICO
A sharp increase in dengue cases has been reported. Dengue is spread mainly by mosquito bites. It can cause a range of symptoms, including fever, headache and a rash. Sometimes, dengue is severe and can have fatal complications. Infants, pregnant people, and those who have had dengue before are most likely to get severe infections. Travelers are advised to prevent dengue by avoiding mosquito bites.
AFRICA & THE MIDDLE EAST
CONGO
Beginning October 22, travelers in urban centers, including Brazzaville, should expect heightened demand for alternative transportation during a planned strike by transportation workers. Drivers of private taxis are also expected to participate in this indefinite strike. Travelers should consequently reconfirm their travel arrangements. This labor stoppage has been organized in protest of COVID-19-related measures, including limits on passenger capacity. All associated protests should be avoided as a precaution and to minimize inconvenience.
COTE D’ IVOIRE
Travelers in Bonoua, Dabou and M’Bahiakro should exercise caution and avoid further protests related to the October 31 Presidential Election. At least 16 people were killed in communal clashes and confrontations with security forces in Dabou on October 19-21. One person was also killed on October 19 after opposition demonstrators erected roadblocks on the A100 Motorway in Bonoua. While the unrest has subsided since October 22, curfews remain in place from 7:00 PM to 6:00 AM local time in Dabou and from 6:00 PM to 6:00 AM local time in M’Bahiakro.
GUINEA
Travelers in Guinea should avoid all gatherings in the coming days due to the potential for further unrest following the release of the provisional results of the presidential election. President Alpha Conde’s victory was confirmed by the Independent National Electoral Commission (CENI) on October 23. Violent unrest, including fatal clashes between protesters and security forces, has since been reported across the country, including in Conakry. The opposition has called for fresh nationwide protests from October 26. Travelers should continue to exercise caution, as tensions surrounding the election are likely to remain high in the medium term.
KENYA
At least three people were killed, and two others injured, following clashes between the Murule and Garre communities in Lafey late on October 23. The former reportedly fired shots at the latter, prompting a retaliatory attack. Although the Local Governor has called for a ceasefire and peaceful meeting between community leaders, tensions remain high and further clashes are possible. This incident underscores the high risk rating for Mandera, where essential travel requires enhanced precautions.
KUWAIT
Travelers should anticipate disruption following the death of the country’s ruler, Emir Sabah Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber AlSabah. Authorities confirmed his passing on September 29. They also announced a 40-day mourning period and a three-day holiday from September 30, during which all government institutions will be closed. Following the announcement of the emir’s death, Crown Prince Sheikh Nawaf Al-Ahmad al-Sabah was named the new emir by the country’s cabinet. Travelers should reconfirm appointments due to anticipated disruption to business activity and operating hours. Large commemorative gatherings are likely to take place amid heightened security and may cause delays to road travel.
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.
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 in Lokoja in the coming hours should minimize movement if possible, amid reports of clashes between protesters and police, as well as gunfire across various parts of the city. Earlier, a media correspondent was reportedly shot by unknown gunmen. It is possible the unrest has stemmed from the alleged looting of COVID-19 supplies from a warehouse in Zone 8 by unknown assailants. The looting is reportedly ongoing.
Travelers in Nigeria over the coming days should exercise heightened caution and abide by curfews imposed following recent protests and unrest. Widespread rallies continued on October 22-23, in defiance of curfews. Clashes involving security forces, protesters and thugs – often accompanied by the use of live ammunition – occurred in several cities. These include Akure, Ondo, Benin City, Enugu, Lagos, and Port Harcourt. Tensions remain high, and fresh outbreaks of unrest are likely.
Travelers in urban centers in the coming days should continue to avoid protests over police brutality due to the risk of unrest. Demonstrations continue despite concessions by the government and ongoing curfews in several states. In one concession, authorities disbanded the Federal Special Anti-Robbery Squad (SARS) on October 11. They subsequently confirmed the formation of a Special Weapons and Tactics unit to replace SARS. The move failed to appease protesters, who perceive it as deceptive and falling short of promised police reform.
Travelers in Lagos in the coming days should minimize movement and abide by a nightly curfew. Authorities have announced that from October 25 a relaxed curfew will apply from 8:00 PM to 6:00 AM local time. Authorities imposed the curfew in response to unrest linked to protests against police violence. Sporadic violence and looting have occurred throughout Lagos, with certain areas acting as flashpoints for protests. Lagos’s Murtala Muhammed International Airport (LOS) remains operational, though many airlines have cancelled flights and movement across the city remains difficult.
SENEGAL
Travelers in Dakar on October 28 and 30 should plan journeys bypassing protests organized by civil society organizations to denounce the provisional results of the recent Presidential Election in Guinea. On both days, activists will gather at 4:00 PM local time at Place de la Nation and march to Rond Point de la RTS. Police dispersed a related demonstration at the Guinean Embassy on October 21 with tear gas. Local authorities have warned against repeated protests.
SAUDI ARABIA
On October 23-25, authorities announced three instances of interceptions of armed drones launched by the Yemenbased Houthi rebel group. These were reportedly targeting civilian areas in southern provinces, though no casualties or damages were announced. The incidents are the latest in a series of cross-border attacks by the Houthis. The Saudi Air Defense System remains capable of intercepting most projectiles; however, travelers should exercise caution around potential targets, including government and military interests, energy infrastructure and airports.
SUDAN
On October 25-27, travelers transiting airports in Sudan should anticipate disruption and reconfirm flight schedules due to a planned strike. The Sudan Airports Holding Company has called on airport workers nationwide to participate in the industrial action, which began at 9:00 AM local time on October 25 and will end at the same time on October 27. The strike is being organized to demand the restructuring of the Civil Aviation Authority, the reinstatement of dismissed workers, and favorable working conditions.
Travelers in Sudan in the coming days should avoid further protests related to the normalization of relations with Israel due to the risk of local unrest. Dozens of demonstrators gathered in Khartoum on October 23 following US President Donald Trump’s announcement of the decision. Several political parties have denounced the agreement.
SOUTH AFRICA
The N1 Highway is closed in both directions at De Doorns due to an ongoing unruly protest. Participants reportedly set a vehicle alight. Traffic is being diverted to the R46 Highway. Travelers should reconfirm the status of routes before setting out and allow additional time for journeys.
TUNISIA
Travelers should continue to defer non-essential travel to Tunisia amid stringent COVID-19-related measures. Nightly curfews remain in effect in several governorates, and further such measures are likely at short notice in the coming weeks. A State of Emergency also remains in place until at least November 30. Travelers are advised to reconfirm region- and city-specific measures.
TURKEY
On October 23, the US Embassy in Ankara announced the temporary suspension of all citizen and visa operations. This followed reports of potential militant attacks and kidnappings targeting US citizens and foreign nationals in Istanbul province. Services have also been temporarily suspended at US diplomatic missions in the Sariyer district, Adana, and Izmir. The announcement highlights the threat of militancy in Turkey – including in medium travel risk areas – and the need to minimize time spent around potential targets for attacks.
ASIA & THE PACIFIC
AFGHANISTAN
At least 27 people on October 24 were killed in two attacks in Kabul province. A suicide bombing targeted an education center in Kabul’s Shia Muslim-majority Dasht-e-Barchi district, killing 18 people and injuring 57. Separately, a roadside bomb struck a passenger vehicle en-route from Kabul to Ghazni, inflicting nine fatalities. The incidents highlight the persistent risk of militancy in Kabul province and the need to defer non-essential travel there.
AUSTRALIA
Travelers in Victoria state, particularly in the Melbourne metropolitan area (MMA), should continue follow all official directions and comply with ongoing COVID-19-related restrictions. In addition to the lifting of an existing lockdown in the MMA on October 28, further easing of restrictions have also been announced. People will be allowed to leave their residences. Restaurants, hotels, bars and pubs can resume operations with limited capacity, while all retail shops can reopen under strict health guidelines; however, the border between the MMA and regional Victoria will remain in place.
BRUNEI
Travelers in Brunei should anticipate associated disruption until October 30 following the death of Prince Haji ‘Abdul’ Azim, the second son of the Sultan, on October 24. The funeral occurred on the evening of October 24 at the Royal Mausoleum in Bandar Seri Begawan. Authorities have declared a seven-day national mourning period from October 24. During this period, all citizens are required to wear white clothing. Travelers should reconfirm appointments, as business activity is liable to be disrupted during the mourning period.
CHINA
Travelers in Hainan province in the coming days should continue to plan journeys accounting for residual disruption following the passage of former Typhoon Saudel. The storm passed by south of Hainan island on October 24, before weakening into a tropical depression. The National Meteorological Centre (NMC) has lowered its typhoon warning to ‘blue’ (lowest on a four-tier scale); however, residual heavy rainfall is expected to continue throughout the eastern and southern regions of Hainan island in the coming days. Limited disruption due to flooding and landslides remains possible.
INDIA
Travelers in urban centers should expect increased security and large crowds during upcoming Hindu festivals, including Navratri (October 17-25), Durga Puja (October 22-26), Dussehra (October 26) and Diwali (November 14). In addition to delays at transport hubs and traffic congestion, there are risks from militancy and communal unrest during this period. Authorities may impose short-notice COVID-19-related measures on gatherings and movement.
Through October 29, travelers in urban centers should avoid demonstrations over a fatal sexual assault case. The main opposition Indian National Congress and women’s groups have called for nationwide protests on October 26 and 29, respectively. Further details of the gatherings are not available. The demonstrations are related to the alleged sexual assault and subsequent death of a woman in September in Hathras.
Travelers are advised to defer all travel due to the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic on the health care situation in the country. Cases of COVID-19 continue to occur across the country in large numbers. A number of cities have been significantly impacted, with the healthcare sector particularly affected. As a result of increased demand, only limited care may be available in both private and public medical systems. Travelers should defer all travel until the situation improves.
Travelers in urban centers in the coming days should avoid demonstrations over a fatal sexual assault case. The main opposition Indian National Congress and women’s groups have called for nationwide protests on October 26 and 29, respectively. Further details of the gatherings are not available. The demonstrations are related to the alleged sexual assault and subsequent death of a woman in September in Hathras.
Since early October 2020, the Air Quality Index (AQI) in the National Capital Region (NCR) intermittently recorded “Poor” to “Very Poor” levels on the Indian pollution measurement scale. Later in the month, air quality dipped further to “Severe” levels in some areas. Polluted air can cause symptoms such as wheezing, coughing, shortness of breath, and irritation of the eyes and nose. Young children, the elderly, pregnant women, and people with underlying heart and lung disease (high-risk groups) are particularly vulnerable. To lessen the risk of potential health problems, travelers are advised to reduce exposure by decreasing time and physical activity outdoors.
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. Opponents of the legislation claim it degrades labor rights and environmental protection. Intermittent protests are likely to continue in urban centers in the coming weeks, including on days surrounding any potential Constitutional Court hearings on the issue. Police may forcibly disperse demonstrations and implement traffic diversions near protest venues.
KYRGYZSTAN
Travelers in urban centers should continue to exercise caution and avoid all gatherings related to planned Parliamentary and Presidential Elections. The Central Election Commission (CEC) announced Parliamentary Rerun Elections will be conducted on December 20. Presidential Elections are expected in mid-January 2021. A State of Emergency in Bishkek has been lifted and widespread unrest has quietened following the resignation of President Jeenbekov on October 15. Newly appointed Prime Minister Sadyr Japarov has also assumed the role of interim President until elections are held. Travelers in country should closely monitor developments related to the elections.
LAOS
Travelers should continue to plan journeys accounting for intermittent disruption to travel and essential services during the ongoing rainy season through the end of November. Persistent rainfall, passage of tropical storms, and overflow from an upstream dam have exacerbated ongoing flooding. Central and southern provinces, including Attapeu, Champasak, Salavan, Savannakhet and Sekong, have been the worst hit. Flash floods and landslides are possible, particularly along the Mekong River. Travelers should avoid low-lying areas, where possible, and reconfirm flight schedules and the status of routes before setting out.
PAKISTAN
Travelers in urban centers over the coming weeks should continue to avoid protests by the Pakistan Democratic Movement (PDM). The coalition comprises all major opposition parties, including the Pakistan Peoples Party and the Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz. Nationwide protests against Prime Minister Imran Khan’s administration are set to continue until January 2021. Heightened security measures can be expected around protest locations following a recent threat alert issued by authorities warning of potential terrorist attacks in Quetta and Peshawar.
PHILIPPINES
Travelers on Luzon Island should minimize non-essential movement in areas where a tropical cyclone wind signal 3 (third-highest level on a five-tier scale) has been issued amid the passage of Typhoon Molave. The weather system is currently located over the Mindoro Strait. It is forecast to move westwards and leave the Philippine Area of Responsibility early on October 27. Significant disruption caused by floods and landslides has been reported in affected areas.
SRI LANKA
Authorities have imposed indefinite curfews across Colombo and Batticaloa districts following a surge in COVID-19 cases. Travel to Bandaranaike International Airport (CMB), serving Colombo, remains permitted for those with scheduled flights. Affected areas in Colombo include the central business district of Fort, as well as Borella, Dam Street, Maligawatta, Pettah, and Welikada. Travelers should closely monitor the situation as further restrictions are possible, including elsewhere in the country.
THAILAND
Travelers should plan journeys accounting for intermittent disruption during the ongoing rainy season through the end of October. Heavy rainfall, flooding and landslides continue to be reported, with northeastern and southern provinces being the worst affected. Flash floods have resulted in intermittent road closures, power outages, and related disruption in the affected areas. Travelers should avoid low-lying areas, where possible, and reconfirm flight schedules and the status of routes before setting out.
Travelers in Bangkok on October 26 should avoid all anti-government demonstrations due to the risk of local disruption and unrest. Protesters will gather from 5:00 PM local time at Sam Yan intersection before marching to the German Embassy via Rama IV Road. Heightened security and a high turnout is likely to cause traffic congestion. Services at the nearby Silom Metropolitan Rapid Transit (MRT) station may be affected. Travelers planning to use nearby MRT and Bangkok Mass Transit System (BTS) services on the day should reconfirm schedules before setting out.
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
Travelers in northern and central provinces should continue to minimize non-essential movement until at least October 27 due to the passage of Tropical Depression Saudel and residual disruption from previous storms. The storm made landfall on the east coast of Quang Phu late on October 25. It is forecast to continue moving on a southwestern trajectory and pass into Laos on October 26. Related flooding has caused significant disruption, particularly in areas that have experienced continuous rain since early October. The National Center for HydroMeteorological Forecasting (NCHMF) maintains a ‘Level Three’ disaster risk warning (third-highest on a five-tier scale) as of October 26.
EUROPE
BELARUS
Travelers in urban centers should monitor developments and anticipate disruption during a nationwide strike from October 26. The strike was called by the opposition after President Alexander Lukashenko refused to abide by a ‘People’s Ultimatum’ to resign by October 25. At least 100,000 people demonstrated in Minsk on the day. Security forces used stun guns, rubber bullets and water cannon to disperse the protests. Mobile internet connectivity was also limited. Further such disruption can be expected in the coming days. Further gatherings are liable to be forcibly dispersed by security forces, posing incidental risks to bystanders.
BELGIUM
Essential travel to Belgium can proceed following an assessment of the COVID-19 situation and entry restrictions, including the potential for sudden changes. Restrictions, including the nightly curfew, have been lifted in Antwerp province. Social distancing measures remain in place throughout the country, limiting social “bubbles” outside family groups to five people and the wearing of masks in public places where a five-foot distance cannot be guaranteed.
GEORGIA
Travelers in Tbilisi and major urban centers should monitor developments and avoid gatherings related to the October 31 Parliamentary Elections due to the risk of unrest. Clashes involving rival political supporters and security forces are possible during rallies, posing incidental risks to bystanders. There have also been several violent incidents targeting politicians or political party offices. The broader security environment is unlikely to deteriorate during the election cycle, but local gatherings over the results are likely to occur. Depending on how contentious the results are, such gatherings may become disruptive.
ITALY
Travelers in urban centers should anticipate and avoid further protests over COVID-19-related curfews due to the risk of local disruption and unrest. On 2 October 6, participants in Rome will gather from 10:00 AM local time at Palazzo Montecitorio. In Turin, rallies on the same day will occur from 8:30 PM at Piazza Castello and from 9:00 PM at Piazza Vittorio Veneto. Unruly protests have recently occurred in various areas, including on October 23-25 in Naples and Rome. Participants set objects alight, hurled projectiles and clashed with police officers, who responded with tear gas.
Essential travel to Italy can continue subject to a strict assessment of the COVID-19 situation and entry restrictions, including the potential for sudden changes. On October 7, Prime Minister Giuseppe Conte signed a new decree extending an ongoing State of Emergency until at least January 31, 2021. Internally, strict social distancing, testing processes and hygiene guidance remain in effect. Overnight curfews are in place in Lombardy, Campania, Lazio, Calabria and Piedmont regions.
