Cyclone CHIDO Strikes Mayotte, Mozambique
Americas
An epidemiological investigation in California involving an infant diagnosed with H5N1 avian influenza revealed that the child had consumed raw (unpasteurized) milk. As this strain of avian flu has spread widely through multiple cattle herds in many states in the US, consumption of unpasteurized milk risks exposure and infection with this dangerous strain of avian influenza. As the outbreak continues, contamination of local milk supplies remains a concern. Pasteurization effectively eliminates the virus from milk. During this cattle-based epidemic, travellers are advised to avoid consuming unpasteurized milk and milk products.
This year, the Ministry of Health has reported 63 cases of leptospirosis in the Coclé department, with one resulting in death. Leptospirosis is ubiquitous throughout most of the world. It is acquired through skin exposure (especially if there are open wounds) to water or damp soil that has been contaminated by an infected animal's urine. For travellers, this exposure is higher after a period of heavy rainfall or flooding. Travellers can reduce the risk of exposure to leptospirosis during floods or heavy rainfall by avoiding contact with floodwaters, e.g., wearing waterproof boots and other protective clothing. Other activities that may increase the risk of exposure include recreational water activities, such as rafting or swimming during floods.
As of 15 December, authorities have lifted most road restrictions in the Franklin Fire area as containment efforts reach 49%, with the fire holding at 4,037 acres. Malibu Canyon Road remains closed between Francisco Ranch Road and Piuma Road for post-fire maintenance, with intermittent closures expected for restoration work by firefighters and utility crews. While fire activity is minimal, smoldering in steep terrain poses risks. Aerial suppression has been effective in managing isolated hotspots. At least 20 structures have been destroyed and another 28 damaged. Evacuation orders for Malibu Canyon Road communities have been lifted.? Some schools in the area are expected to open on 16 December. The fire first broke out nearly a week ago in the late hours of 9 December. The fire’s cause is under investigation, and no injuries have been reported. Stay updated and avoid affected areas.
Europe
On 16 December, Moldovan authorities will impose a national state of emergency due to an expected cut-off of Russian gas supplies from 1 January. The emergency will last for 60 days. Declaring a state of emergency allows the government to respond rapidly and curb energy exports. If travelling in Moldova, expect and prepare for disruptions caused by interrupted gas supply. Check with your hotel staff if the disruptions will impact your travel plans. Follow any other instructions by local authorities.
ScotRail has introduced a new timetable to accommodate planned engineering works, effective until 18 May 2025. From 25 January, no trains will operate between East Kilbride and Thornliebank, while Alexandra Parade’s westbound platform (towards Glasgow) will be closed from 18 January to 4 May, and Hillington West’s Platform 1 (towards Glasgow) will close for 13 weeks from 16 February. Platform-raising works at Dunkeld and Birnam will also impact some services. Most changes are minor, with the majority of routes retaining their current service levels. During the holiday period, the last trains on Christmas Eve and New Year’s Eve will depart earlier, with services winding down from 19:00 hours (local time), though normal service will run between 27 and 30 December. Passengers should check the revised timetable on ScotRail’s website or app and stay informed about disruptions or changes.
Middle East and Asia Pacific
On 9 December, Israeli airstrikes targeted weapon production facilities across the country, including in Damascus. Reports indicate over 100 strikes hit military targets, including a research centre suspected of links to chemical weapons development. The Israeli military claimed the strikes aimed to prevent weapons from falling into the hands of extremists following the collapse of President Bashar al-Assad’s regime. This follows rebel forces taking over the capital on 8 December following a major offensive. Further strikes are possible. Many countries advise their citizens to avoid all travel to Syria due to the dangerous safety and security situation.
On 11 December, at least 12 people were killed in a suicide blast at the Taliban's Ministry of Refugees, including Minister Khalil Haqqani. The attack also left several individuals injured. Reports indicate the attacker bypassed security measures before detonating his explosive vest. The ISIS terrorist group has claimed responsibility for the bombing. Many countries advise their citizens to avoid all travel to Afghanistan due to the dangerous safety and security situation.
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On 12 December, in the early morning hours, at least four people were injured when Ukrainian drones targeted a government building in Grozny. The strike, which marked the second such incident in a week, damaged the building's roof and windows. Falling debris also triggered a small fire, which was promptly extinguished by firefighters. Further strikes and retaliatory attacks are likely. Many countries advise their citizens to avoid all travel to Russia at this time due to the ongoing Russia-Ukraine war.?
With 858 cases of dengue reported in the past week, the total number of reported cases during 2024 has reached almost 46,400 infected people. Colombo has been the most affected district. The risk of exposure will vary from place to place and may be high in many localities where dengue fever-carrying mosquitoes are found. The risk of acquiring dengue during travel depends on the destination, season, duration of the trip, and activities during travel. Severe dengue and death are relatively rare in general travellers but more frequent in those visiting friends and relatives. All travellers to areas where the dengue fever virus is active can reduce their risk of exposure by taking all necessary precautions to avoid mosquito bites. Many people with dengue fever do not seek medical care and are not reported to health authorities. There may be many more cases in the community than the reports indicate.
On 11 December, the mayor of Seoul reassured that the city remains a safe destination for tourists despite the ongoing political chaos caused by the brief martial law declaration. No major incidents have occurred in spite of large-scale rallies in Gwanghwamun, downtown Seoul, western Seoul, and near the National Assembly in Yeouido. On 14 December, the President was impeached following a second impeachment motion raised against him. Travellers should still be cautious and avoid visiting high-risk areas. Travellers should stay informed through local news sources and embassy updates. Be prepared for potential disruptions to transportation and services. Carry essential documents and follow local authorities’ guidance, and prioritize safety and flexibility in your plans.
As of 12 December, authorities have deployed over 82,000 rescue personnel from various agencies in flood-prone areas across Malaysia. A total of 24,000 rescuers are on standby; these include firefighters, volunteers, and auxiliary officers. In some vulnerable locations (such as Gua Musang), residents are advised to remain vigilant and promptly evacuate to the nearest temporary shelters. The situation could worsen if more rainfall continues in the coming days. Avoid the affected areas, especially those near rivers, if possible, as power supply, transportation, and communication systems may be disrupted. Authorities have advised residents/travellers to refer to the official websitewww.met.gov.my and MetMalaysia’s official social media and to download the myCuaca app for the latest and most accurate information. If travelling in the affected area, ensure access to adequate shelter and other essential services. Avoid contact with flood water due to risk of contamination.
Africa
Cyclone CHIDO, a Category 4 storm, made landfall in Pemba, northern Mozambique's Cabo Delgado province, on 15 December, after devastating the French territory of Mayotte. In Mozambique, it brought winds exceeding 200 km/hr and heavy rains, affecting about 1.7 million people. The cyclone has caused widespread damage, and emergency responders are assessing needs and providing aid. Before hitting Mozambique, CHIDO severely impacted Mayotte, flattening entire neighbourhoods with winds over 220 km/hr. The region is feared to have suffered significant casualties, with hundreds or possibly thousands of deaths, though exact numbers are hard to confirm due to local burial practices. This cyclone is considered the worst in Mayotte in over 90 years.
During the past few weeks, local and international medical teams have been trying to identify and control an outbreak of an undiagnosed infectious disease in the remote Panzi region of the country. At least 10 new suspected cases and a new death were reported on 6th December, bringing the total to 416 cases with 135 deaths since the disease first appeared. Laboratory tests have been negative for diseases such as Ebola, Marburg, and other known agents. Affected areas include the health areas of Kanzangi, Tshakalapanzi, and Makita. Overall, the number of affected health areas has increased from 7 to 9. Without knowledge of the agent that is responsible for this outbreak and how it is being transmitted, it is difficult to estimate the risk of exposure for the traveller. It is impossible to provide advice on how to prevent exposure to whatever is causing this outbreak. The symptoms of this disease are not very different from those of many agents that cause respiratory and other illnesses. If, after visiting the area, the traveller develops a headache, cough, respiratory difficulties, and anemia, the traveller should seek medical care at once. Until more is known, travellers should consider postponing all non-essential travel to this region.
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