A heightened threat of detention by Chinese authorities may exist for travelers in China, especially for citizens of Canada and the U.S., in retaliation for the recent detention of a Chinese national in Canada. Travelers should maintain a high level of awareness of the consequences of their daily actions, follow the advice of local authorities, and monitor the situation through local media and embassy communications.
Mexico: Three Migrant Caravans Now Moving Through Country
What Happened: There are now three migrant caravans moving through Mexico from Central America, according to an Oct. 30 report from Excelsior. The first caravan is currently heading toward Juchitan in the state of Oaxaca, while the second recently broke through the Tecun Uman border crossing with Guatemala and is now in Metapa de Dominguez in the state of Chiapas. The third caravan apparently crossed the Suchiate River into Mexico on Oct. 30.
Why It Matters: The prominent political issue of migrant caravans increases the pressure on the U.S. government to stem the flow of people either by banning Central American asylum seekers or taking a harder stance on Mexico and other Central American countries to halt the migrants.
Background: As uncertainty among potential migrants following the election of Donald Trump dissipates, there is an increase in migrant flows across Central America. However, levels of illegal migration to the United States remain well below their record highs almost 20 years ago.
An estimated 7,000 Central American migrants making their way through Mexico toward the United States have become a prominent headline in the daily news cycle. The Central Americans intend to request asylum when they finally reach the U.S. border with Mexico, most likely in Texas' Rio Grande Valley. In response, U.S. President Donald Trump has threatened to cut assistance to Honduras, Guatemala and El Salvador, the three countries where most of the migrants come from.
Philippines: Significant Measles Increase Continues
According to WHO and the Philippines' Department of Health, more than 11,600 confirmed cases of measles (a significant increase over average incidence) were reported from January through July 2018 throughout the country, including in Metro Manila. More than 75% of cases were reported from Mindanao Island (including Davao City) and the National Capital Region. According to media reports, Department of Health officials indicate ongoing outbreaks are occurring in Central and Western Visayas and Bicol regions. Recommendations: All individuals ≥ 12 months of age born in 1957 or later (1970 or later in Canada and the U.K.; 1966 or later in Australia) without history of disease or of 2 countable doses of live vaccine at any time during their lives should complete a lifetime total of 2 doses of MMR vaccine (spaced by at least 28 days). All infants aged 6-11 months should receive 1 dose of MMR vaccine. All those born before 1970 (in Canada) without evidence of immunity or previous vaccination with 1 countable dose of measles-containing vaccine need 1 dose of MMR vaccine.
Thailand: Maya Bay to Remain Closed Due to Environmental Damage
According to the Thai government, Maya Bay (Hat Noppharat Thara-Mu Ko Phi Phi National Park) will remain closed indefinitely due to sustained environmental damage. Travelers should not include Maya Bay in their travel plans.
South Korea: Imported MERS Case in Seoul
According to WHO's regional office, 1 laboratory-confirmed, imported case of Middle East respiratory syndrome (MERS) was reported on September 8, 2018, in Seoul. The South Korean resident traveled while symptomatic aboard Emirates flight EK860 from Kuwait City, Kuwait to Dubai, UAE on September 6 and aboard Emirates flight EK322 from Dubai to Seoul on September 7. The patient was initially hospitalized at Samsung Medical Center and is now isolated at Seoul National University Hospital. This is the first case of MERS diagnosed in South Korea since July 2015. At present, no community or hospital contacts have been reported as symptomatic; effective measures appear to be in place. Any infections resulting from contacts of this case should manifest within the maximum 14-day incubation period. Risk to travelers is low.
United States: Consular Travel Warning
United States: Consular Travel Warning
- What's New > Consular Travel Warnings
- Posted Aug 22, 2018
Due to Hurricane Lane, Canada (GAC) advises reconsidering travel (or avoiding nonessential travel) to Maui and Hawaii counties, Hawaii (including Maui, Lanai, Moloka'i, Kaho‘olawe, and O‘ahu islands). U.S. (DOS), U.K. (FCO), and Australia (DFAT) have no current warnings.
Vietnam: Measles Increase in Hanoi
According to local health authorities and press sources, more than 30 cases of measles per week, an increase over average incidence, are being reported in Hanoi. More than 230 cases have been reported since January 2018, mainly in unvaccinated children aged < 5 years. The outbreak has yet to peak. Shoreland continues to make the following recommendations for travelers: All individuals ≥ 12 months of age born in 1957 or later (1970 or later in Canada and the U.K.; 1966 or later in Australia) without history of disease or of 2 countable doses of live vaccine at any time during their lives should complete a lifetime total of 2 doses of MMR vaccine (spaced by at least 28 days). All infants aged 6-11 months should receive 1 dose of MMR vaccine. All those born before 1970 (in Canada) without evidence of immunity or previous vaccination with 1 countable dose of measles-containing vaccine need 1 dose of MMR vaccine.
Vietnam: Widespread Protests and Ongoing Unrest Likely
Violent protests and civil unrest in response to proposed legislation have been reported since June 10, 2018, in Ho Chi Minh City (especially Notre Dame Cathedral, Nguyen Hue Street, and Hoang Van Thu Park), Binh Thaun Province, and other areas. Further unrest is likely. Extreme vigilance is recommended; bystanders are at risk of arrest or harm from violence from the response by authorities. Travelers should avoid demonstrations, follow the advice of local authorities, and monitor the situation through local media and embassy communications.
Nicaragua: Consular Travel Warning
Due to civil unrest, U.S. (DOS) and U.K. (FCO) advise reconsidering travel (or avoiding nonessential travel) to this country. Canada (GAC) and Australia (DFAT) have no current warnings.
United States: Severe Flooding on Kauai Island, Hawaii
Since April 13, 2018, heavy rains have caused widespread, severe flooding on Kauai Island, Hawaii. Significant disruptions to transportation (road and air travel) should be expected, including to and from Lihue Airport (Kuhio Highway is impassible between Waikoko and Wainiha). Haʻena State Park and Napali Coast State Wilderness Park (including the Kalalau Trail) are closed indefinitely. Travelers should avoid the affected areas and monitor the situation through local media and embassy communications.
