Introducing Affordable Trip Cancellation and Travel Medical Insurance Packages to Olympic Enthusiasts Traveling to Beijing, China for the 2008 Summer Games

We at Sunburst International Risk Management (www.InternationalRiskManagement.com ) and Sunburst Worldwide Insurance Services (www.WorldwideMedicalPlans.com) are pleased to introduce a comprehensive travel insurance package that is especially designed for the more than 500,000 expected attendees of the 2008 Summer Games in Beijing.

Click here for more information

Import/Export Report:
Popular Fresh Tropical Fruits From Thailand Now Available in the United States
By JoAnne Green
May 02, 2008

    
(Photo courtesy of Melissa's/World Variety Produce, Inc.)

Click here for full article.

Know Before You Go:
What Can You Expect at the Songkran Festival?
By JoAnne Green
April 16, 2008

At the beginning of each year, I receive a string of e-mails from my Thai friends to remind me about the Songkran Festival. If you are into cultural celebrations like I am, I think that you will have a blast to be a part of the Songkran Festival.

Click here for full article.

Safety & Security Alert
Philippines: Zamboanga City Kidnapping Threat

The U.S. Embassy Manila released the following Warden Message on April 1, 2008:

The U.S. Embassy has received information that extremist elements may be planning to kidnap Americans or other foreigners at hotels or other public places in the Zamboanga City area.

U.S. citizens and other travelers contemplating travel to the Philippines should carefully consider the risks to their safety and security while there, including those due to terrorism. While travelers may encounter such threats anywhere in the Philippines, the southern island of Mindanao and the Sulu Archipelago are of particular concern. Travelers should exercise extreme caution in both central and western Mindanao as well as in the Sulu Archipelago.

Kidnap for ransom gangs operate in the Philippines. In October 2007, one such gang abducted a visiting U.S. citizen whose whereabouts are unknown at this time. Several other foreigners were also kidnapped for ransom in 2007. The New People’s Army (NPA), a terrorist organization, operates in many rural areas of the Philippines, including in the northern island of Luzon . While it has not targeted foreigners in several years, the NPA could threaten U.S. citizens engaged in business or property management activities, and it often demands “revolutionary taxes.”

Another Airline Casualty: Aloha Airline

On April 1, 2008, Aloha Airline will cease its operation completely after a long financial struggle since 2004. There are no longer any working online reservations through Aloha Airlines.

Travelers who have booked tickets for future trips can contact either United Airlines or Hawaiian Airlines to rebook their tickets. Neither United Airlines or Hawaiian Airlines promise to honor all Aloha’s tickets.

Aloha!!!
###

Click Here for Instant Quotes & Online Purchase
for Global Travel, Medical & Life Insurance

Travel Alert
Chile: City Disturbances

The U.S. Embassy Santiago issued the following Warden Message on March 27, 2008:  

The United States Embassy advises American citizens living in or visiting Santiago of the likelihood of disturbances in Santiago and major cities, including Concepcion, Temuco, Antofagasta, and Iquique, in connection with the anniversary of the Day of the Combatant on Saturday, March 29. Incidents are most likely to start at midday on Friday, March 28, and increase at nighttime in the outskirts of Santiago in areas such as the Villa Francia, Poblacion La Bandera, Poblacion La Legua and Poblacion La Pincoya. (This last area includes the major route Americo Vespucio, which we recommend avoiding.) In the past, this day has often been accompanied by incidents of violence between police and protestors. Additionally, the issues relating to the implementation of the new Transantiago bus system, which has been the cause of previous demonstrations, may escalate the level of demonstrations and the number of persons attending them in the metropolitan area.

American citizens should monitor the media for the latest information on the location of demonstrations, be alert to their surroundings, avoid any large gatherings or events where crowds may gather to demonstrate or protest, and take common-sense precautions to ensure their well-being. 

Travel Alert
China: Tibetan Autonomous Region (TAR)

The U.S. Department of State issued the following Travel Alert on March 15, 2008:

This Travel Alert is being issued to alert U.S. citizens to safety and security concerns in China’s Tibetan Autonomous Region (TAR). On March 14, violence erupted following peaceful demonstrations in the city of Lhasa. American citizens in Tibet and especially in Lhasa are advised to avoid areas where demonstrations are taking place. U.S. citizens in Lhasa should seek safe havens in hotels and other buildings and remain indoors to the extent possible. Americans are advised to defer travel to Tibet at this time. This Travel Alert expires on April 14, 2008.

The Embassy has received reports from American citizens in the city who report gunfire, rioting, and other violence. Information from the media and other sources about the extent of the violence may be sporadic. American consular personnel have not yet been granted access to the TAR and therefore assistance to American citizens may be limited. U.S. citizens in Lhasa should avoid unnecessary movement within the city until the situation stabilizes.

The U.S. Embassy in Beijing can be reached 24 hours per day at 86-10-6532-3431.

U.S. Consulate General Chengdu: tel. 86-28-8558-3992
U.S. Consulate General Guangzhou: tel. 86-20-8518-7605
U.S. Consulate General Shanghai: tel. 86-21-3217-4650
U.S. Consulate General Shenyang: tel. 86-24-2322-1198

Travel Alert
Mali: Avoid travel to northern areas

The U.S. Embassy Bamako issued the following Travel Alert on February 12, 2008:

This Travel Alert is being issued to alert U.S. citizens to security concerns in Mali. Due to recent armed conflict, kidnappings, armed robberies, and the presence of landmines, the Department of State advises U.S. citizens to avoid travel to northern Mali. Areas of particular concern include the Mali-Niger, and Mali-Algeria borders, the Kidal region, areas north of Timbuktu and the city of Tinzawaten.

Al-Qaeda in the Land of the Islamic Maghreb (AQIM) has a presence in northern Mali, and was designated as a terrorist organization by the United States. The presence of AQIM and other armed groups in the north present potential dangers to travelers.

On December 24, 2007, bandits, possibly connected to AQIM, killed four French tourists outside of Aleg, Mauritania. Several days later, four Mauritanian soldiers were killed by suspected terrorists near El Ghallawiya, Mauritania.

On January 3, 2008, four Italians were robbed at gunpoint near Araouane, 150 miles north of Timbuktu by assailants whose affiliation is unknown. This recent activity and the porous nature of Mali ’s northern borders reinforce long-standing concern about security for travel in northern Mali. The Department of State strongly urges citizens to avoid traveling to Northern Mali, including Timbuktu and Essakane.

On August 26-27, 2007, Tuareg dissidents attacked and kidnapped civilian and military convoys near the Mali-Niger border. On August 30, a truck transporting civilians from Algeria to Tinzawaten hit a landmine, killing at least 14 people. In September 2007, the Malian military garrison at Tinzawatan clashed with armed rebels. While the government of Mali is working to strengthen security in northern Mali and achieve a peaceful settlement, the area remains unstable.

Many people who reside in or visit northern Mali travel with security escorts. However, the August 2007 convoy attack on agricultural researchers (escorted by Malian military personnel) illustrated that this does not ensure safety. U.S. government employees, including those on temporary duty, must be given special permission before traveling north of the Niger River, including to Timbuktu, Essakane, Kidal, Tessalit, Lere, Goundam, and Menaka towns.

Global Aviation Alert
Chad: Commercial Flights Resume

The U.S. Embassy N’Djamena issued the following Warden Message on February 12, 2008:

The U.S. Embassy in N’Djamena has learned that Air France will resume commercial flights between N’Djamena and Paris this week. American citizens wishing to depart Chad should contact Air France about flight schedules and seat availability.

The U.S. Embassy has temporarily relocated operations and personnel to the N’Djamena airport and can be reached at 237-94-952-860. American citizens in Chad may also contact the U.S. Embassy in Yaoundé, Cameroon at 237-2220-1500 for assistance. To report the whereabouts of an American citizen in Chad, please call the preceding numbers of the Department of State at 1-888-407-4747 toll free in the United States and Canada, or 1-202-501-4444 from overseas.

Although the immediate threat from clashes between rebels and Chadian authorities is now present only in eastern Chad and traffic is moving normally in much of the country, the political situation in Chad remains fluid and potentially dangerous.

American citizens who decide to remain in Chad should closely monitor news media and the U.S. Embassy’s website: http://ndjamena.usembassy.gov/warden_messages.html. American citizens in Chad are urged to keep family and friends in the United States apprised of their whereabouts.

Global Safety & Security
India: Possible Unrest in Mumbai

The U.S. Consulate General Mumbai issued the following Warden Message February 12, 2008:

The U.S. Consulate General, Mumbai, would like to inform U.S. citizens living or traveling in western India that Mumbai police have filed a criminal case against Maharashtra Nav-Nirman Sena (MNS) chief Raj Thackeray on charges of disturbing the peace and inciting violence in Mumbai. A political rival, Samajwadi Party leader Abu Azmi, has been charged with the same offenses.

Raj Thackeray and Abu Azmi have been arrested. Although there is a large police and paramilitary presence in many parts of the city of Mumbai and the state of Maharashtra, there is a possibility of demonstrations and unrest. We do not expect these to target any foreigners or Americans. However, demonstrations can quickly turn confrontational and possibly escalate into violence. American citizens should avoid large crowds if possible and exercise caution if within the vicinity of any demonstrations. Monitor local media reports and avoid driving into affected areas or taking city trains that travel through affected areas. Be aware of your surroundings and keep a low profile. Areas in Mumbai that may be particularly prone to unrest are Shivaji Park, Dadar, Mahim, and Girgaum.

Global Safety & Security
Sri Lanka: Colombo Attacks

The U.S. Embassy Colombo released the following Warden Message on February 3, 2008:

In light of attacks today at the Fort Railway Station and the Dehiwala Zoo, American citizens are advised to avoid unnecessary travel in and around Colombo through Sri Lankan Independence Day on Monday, February 4th. The Embassy will continue to monitor the situation and will provide further updates as necessary.

Regrettably, the Gregories Road Super Bowl event on Monday morning is cancelled. 

In light of the current security situation, the Embassy again reminds American citizens to defer non-essential visits to crowded public places and high-profile public venues. 

The Embassy reminds American citizens to continue to be aware of their surroundings and vigilant about their personal security. As always, Americans are advised to be on alert when visiting government facilities and high-profile public venues. Americans should also continue to avoid military installations, military convoys traveling on the roads and, where possible, government buildings, as they have in the past been targets for LTTE violence. There are likely to be traffic disruptions as Sri Lankan security forces increase their security checks. Americans are again reminded to cooperate fully with Sri Lankan security forces as they implement increased security measures. 

Global Health Alert
Botswana: XDR Tuberculosis Cases

The U.S. Embassy Gaborone, Botswana issued the following Warden Message on February 1, 2008:

Global Safety & Security
Mexico: Violent Border

Global Health Alert
Brazil: Possible Yellow Fever Outbreak

The U.S Embassy Brasilia issued the following Warden Message on January 9, 2008:

The U.S. Embassy in Brasilia is issuing this Warden Message to alert U.S. citizens residing or traveling in Brazil to recent fatal cases of possible Yellow Fever in Goias and Brazil’s Federal District (including Brasilia), While it will be weeks to months before test results can confirm if these deaths were actually caused by Yellow Fever, the Government of Brazil has begun a Yellow Fever vaccine campaign in the affected regions. 

We would like to take this opportunity to remind the U.S. citizen community of the Embassy’s standing advice regarding Yellow Fever vaccinations for U.S. Citizens traveling to Brazil: 

Yellow Fever vaccine is recommended for persons over 9 months of age for travel to all rural areas of all states, including Iguassu Falls tourist resorts, and for travel to Brasilia and Belo Horizonte. Cities in jungle areas are considered rural, not urban, in nature. 

Yellow Fever is not a risk for travel to major coastal cities from Fortaleza to the Uruguay border, including the major tourist/business destinations of Sao Paulo, Salvador, Rio, Recife, and Fortaleza. 

JoAnne's Advice: If you decided to go despite the warning, I suggest that you register with the U.S. State Department at http://travel.state.gov/,. You should monitor up-to-date information on security by calling 1-888-407-4747 toll free in the U.S., or, for callers outside the U.S. and Canada, a regular toll line at 1-202-501-4444. These numbers are available from 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. Eastern Time, Monday through Friday (except U.S. federal holidays). I also recommend that you get a good international travel insurance plan that includes trip cancellation, emergency medical evacuation and travel assistance such as contacting the U.S. embassies on your behalf. I recommend Travel Cancellation Insurance, Liaison International, and Atlas Travel Series.

Global Aviation Alert
Mongolia: Mongolian Air Travel Grounded

The U.S. Embassy Ulaanbaatar released the following Warden Message on December 31, 2007:

This Warden Message is being issued to notify American citizens that on November 1, 2007 the Mongolian Civil Aviation Authority (MCAA) grounded all Aero Mongolia flights until further notice. The MCAA has said the move is temporary but did not indicate when Aero Mongolia might be permitted to fly again. The Embassy recommends that all American citizens intending to travel within Mongolia by air plan accordingly.

As a reminder, the U.S. Embassy continues to prohibit U.S. government personnel from using the domestic services of Mongolian International Air Transport (MIAT) for official travel because of uncertainties regarding service and maintenance schedules, aircraft certification and insurance status. This prohibition pertains to domestic flights only and does not extend to MIAT’s international flights.

Whenever possible, Americans traveling to and from Mongolia should fly directly to their destinations on international carriers from countries whose civil aviation authorities meet international aviation safety standards for the oversight of their air carrier operations under the U.S. Federal Aviation Administration’s International Aviation Safety Assessment (IASA) program.  

Because there is no direct commercial air service between the United States and Mongolia, the FAA has not assessed Mongolia’s Civil Aviation Authority for compliance with International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) aviation safety standards.

The U.S. Embassy in Ulaanbaatar is located in the 11th Micro-district, just off of Ikh Toiruu (Big Ring Road) next to the Laotian Embassy. The Consular Section can be reached by telephone at 976-11-329-095; by fax at 976-11-320-776; or by email at cons@usembassy.mn.

JoAnne's Advice: If you decided to go despite the warning, I suggest that you register with the U.S. State Department at http://travel.state.gov/,. You should monitor up-to-date information on security by calling 1-888-407-4747 toll free in the U.S., or, for callers outside the U.S. and Canada, a regular toll line at 1-202-501-4444. These numbers are available from 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. Eastern Time, Monday through Friday (except U.S. federal holidays). I also recommend that you get a good international travel insurance plan that includes trip cancellation, emergency medical evacuation and travel assistance such as contacting the U.S. embassies on your behalf. I recommend Travel Cancellation Insurance, Liaison International, and Atlas Travel Series.

Global Safety & Security
Thailand: Elections and New Year

The U.S. Embassy Bangkok released the following Warden Message on December 20, 2007:

Thailand will hold national elections on December 23, 2007. Thai authorities have announced additional security measures will be in place in Bangkok and popular tourist destinations throughout the election and New Year periods. During this time, demonstrations are possible anywhere in the country. Americans should remain vigilant, exercise caution and should avoid large gatherings and other public areas where demonstrations could take place. Searches of vehicles and people may cause delays.

On New Year’s Eve 2006, a series of explosions in Bangkok killed three people and injured more than 30 others, including six foreigners. While the Embassy has no specific information that further attacks are being planned, they cannot be ruled out. We urge all Americans to be extra cautious in public places and to avoid large gatherings during the holiday period.

Worldwide, the Department of State remains concerned about the continued threat of terrorist attacks, demonstrations and other violent actions against U.S. citizens and interests overseas, but does not have any specific information indicating an increased risk to Americans in Thailand. U.S. citizens are strongly encouraged to maintain a high level of vigilance, be aware of local events, and take the appropriate steps to bolster their personal security.

JoAnne's Advice: If you decided to go despite the warning, I suggest that you register with the U.S. State Department at http://travel.state.gov/,. You should monitor up-to-date information on security by calling 1-888-407-4747 toll free in the U.S., or, for callers outside the U.S. and Canada, a regular toll line at 1-202-501-4444. These numbers are available from 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. Eastern Time, Monday through Friday (except U.S. federal holidays). I also recommend that you get a good international travel insurance plan that includes trip cancellation, emergency medical evacuation and travel assistance such as contacting the U.S. embassies on your behalf. I recommend Travel Cancellation Insurance, Liaison International, and Atlas Travel Series .

Holiday Safety

Each year holiday season fires injure 2,600 individuals and cause over $930 million in damage. According to the United States Fire Administration (USFA), there are simple life-saving steps you can take to ensure a safe and happy holiday. By following some of these precautionary tips, you can greatly reduce your chances of becoming a holiday fire casualty.

Christmas trees:
When buying a live tree, make sure the needles are green. The needles should not break if the tree is freshly cut. If you bounce the tree on the ground and needles fall off, the tree is too dry and should not be used. When you put the tree up in your home, be sure to keep it away from heat sources. Don't put it up too early and don't leave it up for more than 2 weeks. Always be sure that it has plenty of water. When you take the tree down, do not burn it in the fireplace. Recycle it or have it hauled away by a community pick-up service.

Holiday lights:
Before using your lights, inspect them for bare spots or frayed wires, and use only lights that have been approved by a testing lab. Be sure not to overload your circuits--the best way to do this is to avoid stringing together more than 3 strands of lights. And never leave your holiday lights unattended.

Holiday decorations:
All such decorations should be flame resistant. Be sure to place them away from heat sources. You should not burn wrapping paper in your fireplace. Such a fire may throw off sparks or produce a chemical build-up that could cause an explosion.

Candles:
Always place candles in steady holders where they can't be easily knocked over, and do not go out of the house with candles burning. If you do use candles during the holidays, be sure to have a fire extinguisher nearby.

Smoke Alarms:
Each year at Christmas is an excellent time to change the batteries in your smoke alarm. If your smoke alarm is hard-wired into the home's electrical system, be sure that it is working.

For more on holiday safety, please contact our office.

For Information on How to Protect Yourself, Your Family,
Your Employees, and Your Trip Abroad,
Contact our Risk Managers today.
info@internationalriskmanagement.com
877-211-3654 or 559-294-0316

Global Health Alert
Dominican Republic: Leptospirosis Outbreak

The U.S. Embassy Santo Domingo issued the following Warden Message on November 20, 2007: 
 
This warden message is to alert U.S. citizens residing and traveling in the Dominican Republic to an outbreak of Leptospirosis. 

There has been an outbreak of leptospirosis in the Dominican Republic as a result of the recent Tropical Storm Noel. The Ministry of Health reports 25 dead and nearly 200 cases countrywide as of November 19, 2007. Many of the cases are in Santo Domingo. 

People who are working in flooded regions and those who are exposed to contaminated water are at risk for this disease. 

Leptospirosis is caused by a germ that is commonly carried in animals. Water, food, or soil may become contaminated with urine from infected animals. Humans become infected through swallowing contaminated food or water. Infection can also occur through skin contact with contaminated water or soil; mucosal surfaces such as the eyes or nose, or broken skin are most vulnerable. The disease is not known to be spread from person-to-person. 

The symptoms of leptospirosis include fever, headache, chills, muscle aches, vomiting, nausea, and diarrhea. These symptoms can be similar to those of other tropical diseases. Other tropical diseases that may cause similar symptoms include malaria, dengue fever, and typhoid. These symptoms can worsen if not treated early. Worsening symptoms include jaundice (yellow skin and eyes), kidney failure, and heavy bleeding. A person can have the leptospirosis germ in their body for 7 days before they feel sick. However, illness can develop any time from a few days to a few weeks after exposure. Antibiotics are used to treat leptospirosis and are most helpful if taken early during illness. 

Recommendations for Travelers

• To reduce the risk of getting sick with leptospirosis and other diseases, all persons should minimize contact with potentially contaminated water, food, or soil.
• People working in flood regions should wear protective clothing and cover cuts and abrasions with waterproof bandages.
• People who will be spending a lot of time in the flooded areas should talk with their doctor about taking antibiotics to help prevent leptospirosis.
• Travelers are reminded to avoid swimming or wading in lakes, ponds, rivers, and other sources of freshwater, especially water that might be contaminated with animal urine.
• People who think they have leptospirosis should seek immediate medical care for diagnosis and treatment.
• Any traveler should seek professional medical care if he or she becomes ill, especially with fever and other flu-like symptoms. Inform your health-care provider about your recent travel.
We recommend that travelers to the Dominican Republic visit the CDC Travelers’ Health website and the U.S. Department of State website for further updates. 

For Information on How to Protect Yourself, Your Family,
Your Employees, and Your Trip Abroad,
Contact our Risk Managers today.
info@internationalriskmanagement.com
877-211-3654 or 559-294-0316

Click here for Instant Quotes & Online Purchase
           For Global Travel Medical, Accident, & Life Insurance

 

Safety and Security Alert
Cambodia: Water Festival

The U.S. Embassy Phnom Penh released the following Warden Message on November 16, 2007:

Cambodians will soon start to make their annual journey to Phnom Penh to celebrate this year’s Water Festival. Approximately 1-2 million Cambodians are expected to travel to Phnom Penh to take part in the festivities.

The following areas are expected to be extremely congested with people: the Riverfront area, Hun Sen Park, Wat Phnom, Independence Monument, as well as the neighborhoods where the majority of our residences are located. American citizens are reminded to remain vigilant and to exercise caution if they decide to join in on the festivities

American citizens should utilize the following common sense security tips during the Water Festival.

• Assume that all criminals are armed. Do not run from or resist a robber. Carry only what you are willing to lose.

• Pick-pocketing - please keep alert while shopping or moving about town. Avoid carrying large sums of money on your person and avoid keeping your money all in one place. Be careful of beggars who may be attempting to distract you or directly pick your pocket. Having a travel companion is encouraged.

• Do not wear or display expensive jewelry while moving about town.

• Crime is a 24-hour concern, but darkness and late night travel increases your chances of being a victim of crime.

• Drugs, prostitution, and organized crime elements are present in Cambodia and are security concerns at local bars and clubs. American citizens are encouraged to be aware of their surroundings and remove themselves from locations that present security concerns.

• Counterfeit U.S. currency can be found in Cambodia. Be sure to scrutinize money prior to accepting it and report any possible counterfeit currency to the Regional Security Office.

• If you become aware that a crime has been committed and/or that police are taking enforcement action, leave the area quickly. Criminals and police are quick to resort to deadly force.

JoAnne's Advice: If you decided to go despite the warning, I suggest that you register with the U.S. State Department at http://travel.state.gov/,. You should monitor up-to-date information on security by calling 1-888-407-4747 toll free in the U.S., or, for callers outside the U.S. and Canada, a regular toll line at 1-202-501-4444. These numbers are available from 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. Eastern Time, Monday through Friday (except U.S. federal holidays). I also recommend that you get a good international travel insurance plan that includes trip cancellation, emergency medical evacuation and travel assistance such as contacting the U.S. embassies on your behalf. I recommend Travel Cancellation Insurance, Liaison International, and Atlas Travel Series .

Travel Alert
Libya: Day of Mourning

The U.S. Embassy in Tripoli, Libya, issued the following Warden Message on October 25, 2007:

In commemoration of the Libyan Day of Mourning, the Government of Libya has decreed that on Friday, October 26, internet and international phone calls will be cut off nationwide from 6AM to 6PM. All Libyan Airline flights are cancelled, although other international airline travel may be permitted. International and national ground and marine travel operated by Government of Libya-owned companies are also cancelled. The Day of Mourning commemorates the expulsion by Italy in 1911 of a number of Libyans. 

JoAnne's Advice: If you decided to go despite the warning, I suggest that you register with the U.S. State Department at http://travel.state.gov/,. You should monitor up-to-date information on security by calling 1-888-407-4747 toll free in the U.S., or, for callers outside the U.S. and Canada, a regular toll line at 1-202-501-4444. These numbers are available from 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. Eastern Time, Monday through Friday (except U.S. federal holidays). I also recommend that you get a good international travel insurance plan that includes trip cancellation, emergency medical evacuation and travel assistance such as contacting the U.S. embassies on your behalf. I recommend Travel Cancellation Insurance, Liaison International, and Atlas Travel Series .

For Information on How to Protect Yourself, Your Family,
Your Employees, and Your Trip Abroad,
Contact our Risk Managers today.
info@internationalriskmanagement.com
877-211-3654 or 559-294-0316

Global Health Alert
Jamaica: New Malaria Cases in Kingston

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has received a report of an additional case of Plasmodium falciparum malaria in a resident of Kingston, Jamaica. This brings the total number of recent cases to two, suggesting that the outbreak that started in September 2006 resulting in 370 cases by June 2007 is still continuing. As a result, CDC is reinstating the recommendation that U.S. travelers to Kingston, Jamaica, take malaria preventive medication (prophylaxis).

This recommendation is expected to be temporary and does not apply to other areas of Jamaica. Jamaica is a country where malaria is not considered endemic and malaria transmission does not normally occur. The Ministry of Health in Jamaica has responded to these latest cases with heightened surveillance for malaria cases, measures to control mosquitoes (larviciding and spraying), and educating the local population.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has received official reports of two confirmed malaria cases in Great Exuma, Bahamas. Malaria transmission had not previously been reported from this area, until an outbreak was reported in late spring and summer 2006. One of the confirmed cases occurred in a U.S. citizen who traveled to Great Exuma in late July 2007. This patient’s illness has been confirmed as malaria caused by Plasmodium falciparum. Malaria is not considered endemic on the islands of the Bahamas.

At this time, CDC is recommending chloroquine as an antimalarial medication for travelers to Great Exuma. This recommendation is expected to be temporary and does not apply to other islands of the Bahamas.

Chloroquine has a long history of use and safety and is well tolerated by most people, including children. People with an allergy to chloroquine should discuss an alternative antimalarial drug with their health-care provider. To learn more about chloroquine, including dosing information.

Global Health Alert
Latin America: Dengue Fever

Dengue Fever is endemic to Latin America and the Caribbean and can occur throughout the year.  In 2007 there has been a marked increase in the number of reported cases of dengue across the region.  In Brazil; 480,000 cases have been officially recorded between January and October 2007, which is a 50% increase on 2006.  The worst affected region is the State of Mato Grosso do Sul.

JoAnne's Advice: If you plan to travel to Latin America and the Caribbean, I suggest that you register with the U.S. State Department at http://travel.state.gov/,. You should monitor up-to-date information on security by calling 1-888-407-4747 toll free in the U.S., or, for callers outside the U.S. and Canada, a regular toll line at 1-202-501-4444. These numbers are available from 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. Eastern Time, Monday through Friday (except U.S. federal holidays). I also recommend that you get a good international travel insurance plan that includes trip cancellation, emergency medical evacuation and travel assistance such as contacting the U.S. embassies on your behalf. I recommend Travel Cancellation Insurance, Liaison International, and Atlas Travel Series .

For Information on How to Protect Yourself, Your Family,
Your Employees, and Your Trip Abroad,
Contact our Risk Managers today.
info@internationalriskmanagement.com
877-211-3654 or 559-294-0316

Overseas Safety and Security
Ecuador: Volcano Warning

The U.S. Embassy in Quito, Ecuador released the following Warden Message on October 19, 2007:

This is to inform American citizens visiting or resident in Ecuador that the US Embassy in Quito received reports of increased activity at Tungurahua Volcano, approximately 140 kilometers south of Quito near Baños. To date, only increased seismic activity, and limited emissions of ash and gas have been reported. Geologists are monitoring the volcano closely. Reports are available at http://www.igepn.edu.ec, under “volcanoes.”

Although the alert status has not changed, volcanic conditions can change rapidly. Tungurahua erupted last year causing significant damage, displacement, deaths, and injuries. Ash from the eruption affected not just the immediate vicinity of the volcano but also closed the city of Baños.

American citizens are advised to exercise caution in the area around Tungurahua Volcano and to verify that roads and tourist facilities are open before traveling. Because Ecuador is in a region of frequent volcanoes and earthquakes, Americans are advised to keep extra food and water in your homes, and consider purchasing dust masks and heavy gloves to protect hands during ash clean-up.

JoAnne's Advice: If you decided to go despite the warning, I suggest that you register with the U.S. State Department at http://travel.state.gov/,. You should monitor up-to-date information on security by calling 1-888-407-4747 toll free in the U.S., or, for callers outside the U.S. and Canada, a regular toll line at 1-202-501-4444. These numbers are available from 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. Eastern Time, Monday through Friday (except U.S. federal holidays). I also recommend that you get a good international travel insurance plan that includes trip cancellation, emergency medical evacuation and travel assistance such as contacting the U.S. embassies on your behalf. I recommend Travel Cancellation Insurance, Liaison International, and Atlas Travel Series .

Overseas Safety and Security
Hungary: Protests and Demonstrations in Budapest

The U.S. Embassy Hungary issued the following security warning message on October 19, 2007: 

Between October 21st and November 4th, there will be more than 100 events throughout Budapest that will commemorate the 51st Anniversary of the 1956 Revolution. During this period, protestors will stage demonstrations against the Hungarian Government.

Police will be posted throughout the city in large numbers to monitor the different events and demonstrations. The police are preparing for the possibility of violence, such as hooligans infiltrating peaceful, legal demonstrations and trying to cause disturbances.

On October 23, 2006, a large riot occurred in the Astoria section (in Pest – from the intersection of Rákóczi út and Múzeum Körút westward to the Erzsébet Bridge on Szabad Sajtó út) that ended with many injuries and arrests. During that demonstration, police used tear gas, rubber bullets, and water canons to control the rioting.

Because of this and earlier similar incidents last autumn, the U.S. Embassy in Budapest again directs the attention of U.S. citizens residing in or visiting Hungary to the following existing language in our Consular Information Sheet for Hungary: 

SAFETY AND SECURITY: Prior police approval is required for public demonstrations in Hungary and police oversight is routinely provided to ensure adequate security for participants and passersby. Nonetheless, situations may develop which could pose a threat to public safety. U.S. citizens are advised to avoid areas in which public demonstrations are taking place.

JoAnne's Advice: If you decided to go despite the warning, I suggest that you register with the U.S. State Department at http://travel.state.gov/,. You should monitor up-to-date information on security by calling 1-888-407-4747 toll free in the U.S., or, for callers outside the U.S. and Canada, a regular toll line at 1-202-501-4444. These numbers are available from 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. Eastern Time, Monday through Friday (except U.S. federal holidays). I also recommend that you get a good international travel insurance plan that includes trip cancellation, emergency medical evacuation and travel assistance such as contacting the U.S. embassies on your behalf. I recommend Travel Cancellation Insurance, Liaison International, and Atlas Travel Series .