Please be advised that a map showing detailed information about the Ebola virus in West Africa has been added to Travelinfo Plus.
The map, which is the same one as seen on other Now Media publications, includes travel restrictions and is updated daily.
It can be viewed here.
For future reference, the map can be found under Airline Information under the “Ebola – daily updates for travellers” heading.
Friday, August 29, 2014
Severe weather and possible tornadoes to affect travel
As a storm system moves out of the northern Rockies this weekend, it may trigger a severe weather outbreak on Sunday that includes the risk of a few tornadoes in portions of the northern and central Plains to the Upper Midwest.
In addition to the potential for a few tornadoes, many of the storms will bring the full spectrum risk of severe weather, including damaging wind gusts; large hail; frequent lightning strikes; and flash flooding.
During the afternoon hours on Sunday, the risk of storms will extend from central and northeastern Nebraska to eastern North Dakota and northwestern Minnesota.
On Sunday night, the risk of storms will shift farther east and south and will extend from central and eastern Kansas to eastern Minnesota and western Wisconsin.
Major cities that can be affected by the storms include Fargo, North Dakota; Sioux Falls, South Dakota; Des Moines, Iowa; Omaha, Nebraska; Kansas City, Missouri; La Crosse, Wisconsin; and Minneapolis.
During Labor Day, September 1, the risk of locally heavy, gusty thunderstorms could reach farther east and may impact portions of central Missouri, Illinois, Michigan and Indiana.
The severe weather is likely to cause disruptions on roads and at airports and travellers should expect delays.
In addition to the potential for a few tornadoes, many of the storms will bring the full spectrum risk of severe weather, including damaging wind gusts; large hail; frequent lightning strikes; and flash flooding.
During the afternoon hours on Sunday, the risk of storms will extend from central and northeastern Nebraska to eastern North Dakota and northwestern Minnesota.
On Sunday night, the risk of storms will shift farther east and south and will extend from central and eastern Kansas to eastern Minnesota and western Wisconsin.
Major cities that can be affected by the storms include Fargo, North Dakota; Sioux Falls, South Dakota; Des Moines, Iowa; Omaha, Nebraska; Kansas City, Missouri; La Crosse, Wisconsin; and Minneapolis.
During Labor Day, September 1, the risk of locally heavy, gusty thunderstorms could reach farther east and may impact portions of central Missouri, Illinois, Michigan and Indiana.
The severe weather is likely to cause disruptions on roads and at airports and travellers should expect delays.
Volcanic eruption triggers red alert
The Icelandic Met Office has raised its aviation warning level near the Bardarbunga volcano to red after an eruption began overnight.
Scientists said a fissure eruption 1km long started in a lava field north of the Vatnajokull glacier.
Civil protection officials said Icelandic Air Traffic Control had closed the airspace above the eruption up to a height of 18,000ft (5,500m).
The volcano has been hit by several recent tremors.
No volcanic ash has thus far been detected but a coast guard aircraft is due to take off later to survey the site.
Scientists said a fissure eruption 1km long started in a lava field north of the Vatnajokull glacier.
Civil protection officials said Icelandic Air Traffic Control had closed the airspace above the eruption up to a height of 18,000ft (5,500m).
The volcano has been hit by several recent tremors.
No volcanic ash has thus far been detected but a coast guard aircraft is due to take off later to survey the site.
PNG volcano eruption may disrupt flights
This alert applies to to the following locations: Australia / Papua New Guinea
A major volcanic eruption in Papua New Guinea this morning could disrupt flights to and from Australia.
The Volcanic Ash Advisory Centre in Darwin is monitoring the ash cloud from the Tavurcur volcano on PNG’s East Britain Island, which is slowly drifting southwest.
Senior meteorologist Ian Shepherd said they were watching the cloud closely and providing advice to airlines.
At this time, it is too early to say if the ash cloud will reach Australia. However, planes may be forced to take alternate routes with the ash forecast to move towards the Solomon Islands and then Vanuatu.
Authorities have evacuated communities close to the volcano. Residents of Rabaul town have been advised to remain indoors to avoid falling ash.
There were no immediate reports of injuries or damage.
The Australian government has issued a warning against travelling to the area.
A major volcanic eruption in Papua New Guinea this morning could disrupt flights to and from Australia.
The Volcanic Ash Advisory Centre in Darwin is monitoring the ash cloud from the Tavurcur volcano on PNG’s East Britain Island, which is slowly drifting southwest.
Senior meteorologist Ian Shepherd said they were watching the cloud closely and providing advice to airlines.
At this time, it is too early to say if the ash cloud will reach Australia. However, planes may be forced to take alternate routes with the ash forecast to move towards the Solomon Islands and then Vanuatu.
Authorities have evacuated communities close to the volcano. Residents of Rabaul town have been advised to remain indoors to avoid falling ash.
There were no immediate reports of injuries or damage.
The Australian government has issued a warning against travelling to the area.
FCO updates advice regarding Ebola
The Foreign and Commonwealth Office (FCO) has updated its travel advice due to the ongoing outbreak of the Ebola virus in West Africa.
The FCO now advise against all but essential travel to Guinea, Sierra Leone and Liberia, expect for those involved in the direct response to the outbreak.
Meanwhile, the World Health Organisation believes that the current outbreak in West Africa could infect more than 20 000 people.
The official death toll since the outbreak began now stands at 1 552.
The FCO now advise against all but essential travel to Guinea, Sierra Leone and Liberia, expect for those involved in the direct response to the outbreak.
Meanwhile, the World Health Organisation believes that the current outbreak in West Africa could infect more than 20 000 people.
The official death toll since the outbreak began now stands at 1 552.
Early morning quake felt in capital
A strong earthquake shook southern Greece early this morning and was felt as far as Athens but there have been no immediate reports of casualties or serious damage.
The quake, which hit at 06h45 local time, measured 5,7 in magnitude, according to the U.S. Geological Survey and struck at sea 129km south of the Greek capital.
No tsunami warning has been issued.
The quake, which hit at 06h45 local time, measured 5,7 in magnitude, according to the U.S. Geological Survey and struck at sea 129km south of the Greek capital.
No tsunami warning has been issued.
Lethal jellyfish sting triggers warning
Tourists visiting Thailand's beaches have been warned of the danger of swimming in the sea after a boy died from a jellyfish sting.
The French boy died after being stung by a box jellyfish, which trails poisonous tentacles up to three metres behind its body.
The incident happened at Had Kuad beach, also known as Bottle Beach, on Koh Phangan island.
Local police have advised tourists to exercise caution when swimming and have also asked hotels to erect warning signs and prepare emergency packs in case more incidents occur.
The French boy died after being stung by a box jellyfish, which trails poisonous tentacles up to three metres behind its body.
The incident happened at Had Kuad beach, also known as Bottle Beach, on Koh Phangan island.
Local police have advised tourists to exercise caution when swimming and have also asked hotels to erect warning signs and prepare emergency packs in case more incidents occur.
Rail fairs set to increase
Regulated rail fares in the United Kingdom are set to rise from January next year.
Fairs will increase by 3.5% in England.
In Scotland, there will be no rise in off-peak fares in 2015, which have been frozen since January 2013. However, peak fares will rise by 2.5%.
The Welsh government has yet to make a decision, but it usually mirrors the rise in England.
Fairs will increase by 3.5% in England.
In Scotland, there will be no rise in off-peak fares in 2015, which have been frozen since January 2013. However, peak fares will rise by 2.5%.
The Welsh government has yet to make a decision, but it usually mirrors the rise in England.
Nightly border closures to combat smuggling
This alert applies to to the following locations: Venezuela / Colombia
The opening hours of the land border crossings between Venezuela and Colombia have been reduced as a measure to fight smuggling.
Borders will close nightly between 18h00 and 05h00 until further notice.
The opening hours of the land border crossings between Venezuela and Colombia have been reduced as a measure to fight smuggling.
Borders will close nightly between 18h00 and 05h00 until further notice.
SA Ebola Safe – Tourism Minister
Tourism Minister Derek Hanekom has said South Africa has taken the necessary steps to protect the country from the Ebola epidemic that has killed over 1 200 people across West African countries Liberia; Guinea; Sierra Leone; and Nigeria.
Last week, SA’s ministry of health instituted a travel ban for citizens from Ebola high risk countries and advised all South Africans to limit non-essential travel to the region.
Hanekom also highlighted strict screening measures in place at all ports of entry, emphasising the country’s readiness to deal with any Ebola case that reaches its shores.
South African Airways (SAA) said last week it would uphold the decision to ban all citizens from Ebola-infected countries but will continue to service West African routes including, Benin; Ghana; Ivory Coast; Nigeria; and Senegal.
The World Health Organisation (WHO) said on Tuesday it had shut a laboratory in Sierra Leone after a health worker there was infected with Ebola, a move that may hamper efforts to boost the global response to the worst-ever outbreak of the disease.
Nigeria's health minister said on Tuesday that his country had "thus far contained" the outbreak.
Meanwhile, Chad has reportedly cancelled all incoming flights from or via countries affected by Ebola, including Nigeria, as a preventative measure against the spread of Ebola to the country. Chad has also cancelled all flights from or via Ghana.
Last week, SA’s ministry of health instituted a travel ban for citizens from Ebola high risk countries and advised all South Africans to limit non-essential travel to the region.
Hanekom also highlighted strict screening measures in place at all ports of entry, emphasising the country’s readiness to deal with any Ebola case that reaches its shores.
South African Airways (SAA) said last week it would uphold the decision to ban all citizens from Ebola-infected countries but will continue to service West African routes including, Benin; Ghana; Ivory Coast; Nigeria; and Senegal.
The World Health Organisation (WHO) said on Tuesday it had shut a laboratory in Sierra Leone after a health worker there was infected with Ebola, a move that may hamper efforts to boost the global response to the worst-ever outbreak of the disease.
Nigeria's health minister said on Tuesday that his country had "thus far contained" the outbreak.
Meanwhile, Chad has reportedly cancelled all incoming flights from or via countries affected by Ebola, including Nigeria, as a preventative measure against the spread of Ebola to the country. Chad has also cancelled all flights from or via Ghana.
Thursday, August 28, 2014
Storms to delay weekend travel
While the weather over much of the Atlantic and Pacific coasts will be free of rain during much of this Labor Day weekend, a zone of unsettled weather will reach across part of the Central states.
A zone of showers and thunderstorms will develop over the northern Rockies and sweep toward the Plains. This area will grow in size and persistence from portions of Texas, the lower Mississippi Valley and Florida, northward to around the Great Lakes. Major travel hubs such as Chicago; Detroit; St. Louis; Dallas; Houston; New Orleans; Orlando; and Kansas City, Missouri, can be affected at times.
These storms, as well of the millions of Americans who will be travelling for the holiday weekend, mean travellers should expect severe delays at airports and on major roads.
These storms can lead to flash flooding and sporadic power outages.
Very spotty showers will also affect coastal Washington state this weekend. A zone of clouds and showers is projected to sag slowly southward across upstate New York and New England.
By Labor Day, September 1, the unsettled weather may push farther east across the central and southern Appalachians to the mid-Atlantic coast.
Seismic activity continues
Updated 27 Aug 2014 @ 09:33
The magma from Iceland's Bardarbunga volcano could be moving towards another large volcanic system.
Data recorded by a team from the University of Cambridge suggests that 50 million cubic metres of molten rock has moved in the last 24 hours.
If it continues on a northern trajectory it could feed into the Askja volcanic system, potentially triggering a large eruption.
Meanwhile, the Bardarbunga volcano was hit by a 5,7-magnitude earthquake yesterday morning, the largest since tremors began in the area last week.
High levels of seismic activity continue in the area around the volcano. The following roads in the area remain closed: F-910 Austurleid; F903; Hvannalindarvegur; F902; Kverkfjallaleid; F905; Arnardalsleid; and F88.
While airspace over the site has been closed, all Icelandic airports currently remain open.
Data recorded by a team from the University of Cambridge suggests that 50 million cubic metres of molten rock has moved in the last 24 hours.
If it continues on a northern trajectory it could feed into the Askja volcanic system, potentially triggering a large eruption.
Meanwhile, the Bardarbunga volcano was hit by a 5,7-magnitude earthquake yesterday morning, the largest since tremors began in the area last week.
High levels of seismic activity continue in the area around the volcano. The following roads in the area remain closed: F-910 Austurleid; F903; Hvannalindarvegur; F902; Kverkfjallaleid; F905; Arnardalsleid; and F88.
While airspace over the site has been closed, all Icelandic airports currently remain open.
Gusty storms to stretch from Denver to Chicago, Toronto
Updated 27 Aug 2014 @ 09:37
This alert applies to to the following locations: United States of America / Canada
This alert applies to to the following locations: United States of America / Canada
A corridor of rain and thunderstorms will stretch from the Rocky Mountains to the Great Lakes throughout today, bringing the threat of travel delays and flooding.
Travel delays should be anticipated across this zone through at least today, which includes the cities of Omaha, Nebraska; Kansas City, Missouri; Des Moines, Iowa; Denver; Chicago; Detroit and Toronto.
The moisture-rich air from the south will help to fuel drenching downpours along this boundary. It is also possible for some stronger storms to develop and produce incidents of localized hail and gusty winds. Blinding downpours will be the primary threat, however, and can result in temporary ground stoppages at airports and road closures due to flooding.
Slowed traffic and delays should be expected along portions of Interstate 29, as well as long stretches of I-70; I-80; and I-90, as the soaking showers and thunderstorms move through.
Anyone planning to travel across the areas to be impacted by the showers and storms should allow extra time to reach their destinations to compensate for poor visibility and soaked roadways.
Later in the week, the zone of showers and thunderstorms is expected to shift eastward slowly away from the Rockies and dissolve over the Midwest.
Travel delays should be anticipated across this zone through at least today, which includes the cities of Omaha, Nebraska; Kansas City, Missouri; Des Moines, Iowa; Denver; Chicago; Detroit and Toronto.
The moisture-rich air from the south will help to fuel drenching downpours along this boundary. It is also possible for some stronger storms to develop and produce incidents of localized hail and gusty winds. Blinding downpours will be the primary threat, however, and can result in temporary ground stoppages at airports and road closures due to flooding.
Slowed traffic and delays should be expected along portions of Interstate 29, as well as long stretches of I-70; I-80; and I-90, as the soaking showers and thunderstorms move through.
Anyone planning to travel across the areas to be impacted by the showers and storms should allow extra time to reach their destinations to compensate for poor visibility and soaked roadways.
Later in the week, the zone of showers and thunderstorms is expected to shift eastward slowly away from the Rockies and dissolve over the Midwest.
Possible pilot strike
Updated 27 Aug 2014 @ 09:36
French pilot union SNPL is threatening to strike all through September, which would severely disrupt air travel in the country.
Should the industrial action occur, Air France pilots will strike over an ongoing dispute regarding reorganisation plans for the company.
More information is reportedly set to be released tomorrow, August 28.
Updates to follow.
Should the industrial action occur, Air France pilots will strike over an ongoing dispute regarding reorganisation plans for the company.
More information is reportedly set to be released tomorrow, August 28.
Updates to follow.
Extreme weather warning for travellers
Updated 27 Aug 2014 @ 14:28
The South African Weather Service has warned of cold and wet conditions across the country in the next few days, meaning travel plans may be affected.
Apart from heavy rain, snowfall is also expected across the country.
Light dustings have already reportedly appeared on the highest peaks around Ceres and the Cederberg in the Western Cape.
Widespread snow is expected over most of the high-lying areas of the south western Cape and into the southern parts of the Northern Cape by tomorrow morning.
By Friday afternoon, the southern Free State, eastern parts of the Eastern Cape, the KZN midlands and Lesotho should also have received snowfall. Table Mountain may also see some snowfall.
Mountain passes in these areas may be affected and travellers are advised to keep a close eye out for possible road closures and have alternative routes planned out.
Anyone at the coast this weekend should exercise caution as six-metre waves are expected.
In the Western Cape, members of the public have been urged to stay away from areas like the Atlantic Seaboard, False Bay coastline and Strand/Gordon’s Bay beachfront during this period.
Apart from heavy rain, snowfall is also expected across the country.
Light dustings have already reportedly appeared on the highest peaks around Ceres and the Cederberg in the Western Cape.
Widespread snow is expected over most of the high-lying areas of the south western Cape and into the southern parts of the Northern Cape by tomorrow morning.
By Friday afternoon, the southern Free State, eastern parts of the Eastern Cape, the KZN midlands and Lesotho should also have received snowfall. Table Mountain may also see some snowfall.
Mountain passes in these areas may be affected and travellers are advised to keep a close eye out for possible road closures and have alternative routes planned out.
Anyone at the coast this weekend should exercise caution as six-metre waves are expected.
In the Western Cape, members of the public have been urged to stay away from areas like the Atlantic Seaboard, False Bay coastline and Strand/Gordon’s Bay beachfront during this period.
Monday, August 25, 2014
EBOLA UPDATE: 25 August 2014
25 Mon, Aug 2014
The Ebola outbreak in West Africa has had significant implications for travel to and from Africa. In response to the outbreak, a number of countries on the continent have implemented restrictions on travel to and from countries affected by the virus, while some have even instituted travel bans. Misinformation about the spread of Ebola and Africa’s geography has also resulted in travel cancellations.
Please view the attached map for infected areas.
Most Recent Confirmed Case:
The Democratic Republic of Congo has confirmed that an outbreak of haemorrhagic fever in the north of the country has been identified as Ebola.
The virus has been identified in two people from the Equateur province, where 13 others have already died.
However, Health Minister Felix Numbi said the disease seemed to be a different strain to the outbreak in West Africa.
A quarantine zone has been set up around the affected area near Jera, more than 1 200km northeast Kinshasa, to contain the disease.
The cases are the first reported outside West Africa since the outbreak began in February.
Official figures say 1 427 people have died from Ebola thus far.
INFECTED AREAS: Sierra Leone, Liberia, Guinea, Nigeria, Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC)
Algeria
Ebola cases: No reported cases of Ebola
Angola
Ebola cases: No reported cases of Ebola
Benin
Ebola cases: No reported cases of Ebola
Botswana
Ebola cases: No reported cases of Ebola
Travel restrictions: Botswana has banned travellers from Sierra Leone, Liberia, Guinea and Nigeria.
Botswana's Health Deputy Permanent Secretary, Shenaaz El-Halabi, said during a recent media briefing that Botswana is screening all arrivals from West Africa and that the country has implemented Travel restrictions for visitors from the four affected countries. These measures are part of a new comprehensive Preparedness Plan.
Travel incidents: The African Travel and Tourism Association reported that US tourists were refused entry into Botswana because they had arrived from Lagos, Nigeria.
Distance from Ebola outbreak: 5 300km
Burkina Faso
Ebola cases: No reported cases of Ebola
Burundi
Ebola cases: No reported cases of Ebola
Cameroon
Ebola cases: No reported cases of Ebola
Travel restrictions: Cameroon has placed a travel ban on Nigeria, Liberia, Guinea and Sierra Leone.
Flight cancellations: Cameroon banned all flights from Nigeria last week.
Distance from Ebola outbreak: 2 500km
Canary Islands
Ebola cases: No reported cases of Ebola
Cape Verde Islands
Ebola cases: No reported cases of Ebola
Central African Republic
Ebola cases: No reported cases of Ebola
Chad
Ebola cases: No reported cases of Ebola
Comoros
Ebola cases: No reported cases of Ebola
Congo
Ebola cases: No reported cases of Ebola
Democratic Republic Of The Congo
Ebola cases: The Democratic Republic of Congo has confirmed two cases of Ebola.
However, these cases are unrelated to the epidemic in West Africa, as it seems to be a different strain of the disease. The cases were found in Equateur province near Jera, more than 1 200 kilometres (750 miles) northeast of Kinshasa. The area has been quarantined.
The World Health Organisation (WHO) also reported that about 70 out of 592 people that contracted hemorrhagic gastroenteritis (an ailment which has similar symptoms with the Ebola Virus Disease but a much higher survival rate than Ebola) have died in the DRC.
Distance from Ebola outbreak: 3 250km
Djibouti
Ebola cases: No reported cases of Ebola
Egypt
Ebola cases: No reported cases of Ebola
Equatorial Guinea
Ebola cases: No reported cases of Ebola
Eritrea
Ebola cases: No reported cases of Ebola
Ethiopia
Ebola cases: No reported cases of Ebola
Travel restrictions: Ethiopia has not banned travel to and from Ebola-affected countries. Doctors and nurses are on standby at the airport to treat any possible cases in isolation.
Flight cancellations: Ethiopian Airlines is continuing flights to West Africa. The airline has no direct flights to Liberia, Sierra Leone or Guinea. Airline officials have said that the airline is taking precautions.
Distance from Ebola outbreak: 5 500km
Gabon
Ebola cases: No reported cases of Ebola
Ghana
Ebola cases: No reported cases of Ebola
Travel restrictions: The government of Ghana issued a travel advisory on Thursday, August 21, urging citizens to only travel to the affected countries if it is "absolutely necessary" to do so.
Distance from Ebola outbreak: 1 200km
Guinea
Ebola cases: Ebola has hit Guinea with 607 reported cases and 406 deaths.
Researchers believe that the first human case of the Ebola virus disease leading to the 2014 outbreak was a 2-year-old boy who died 6 December 2013 in the village of Meliandou. His mother, 3-year-old sister and grandmother then became ill with symptoms consistent with Ebola infection and died.
Travel restrictions: Health officials in Guinea say all passengers departing from the capital city's airport must fill out a health form and have their temperature taken. Anyone with a temperature higher than 38�C will be tested for the disease.
Guinea Bissau
Ebola cases: No reported cases of Ebola
Ivory Coast
Ebola cases: No reported cases of Ebola
Travel restrictions: Ivory Coast has banned travel to and from Guinea, Liberia and Sierra Leone.
Flight cancellations: Ivory Coast announced last week that it has banned all flights from Ebola-affected countries. The government said in a statement that it has forbidden all carriers from transporting passengers from these countries.
Distance from Ebola outbreak: 650km
Kenya
Ebola cases: No reported cases of Ebola
Travel restrictions: Kenya has banned travel to and from Liberia, Guinea and Sierra Leone.
The Kenyan Minister of Health, James Macharia, said the country would temporarily suspend entry into Kenya of passengers travelling from and through Sierra Leone, Guinea and Liberia, with effect from 19 August.
Flight cancellations: Korean Airlines has suspended flights to Nairobi.
Distance from Ebola outbreak: 5 400km
Lesotho
Ebola cases: No reported cases of Ebola
Liberia
Ebola cases: Liberia is the hardest hit by the disease with 1 082 reported cases and 624 deaths.
Travel restrictions: The Liberian government on Sunday, August 24, closed most of its border crossings with the exception of major entry points.
Liberia President Ellen Johnson Sirleaf said the government is testing all outgoing and incoming passengers. Public gatherings such as marches, demonstrations and promotional advertisements will be restricted.
Libya
Ebola cases: No reported cases of Ebola
Madagascar
Ebola cases: No reported cases of Ebola
Malawi
Ebola cases: No reported cases of Ebola
Mali
Ebola cases: No reported cases of Ebola
Mauritania
Ebola cases: No reported cases of Ebola
Travel restrictions: Mauritania has banned travel to and from Liberia and Sierra Leone.
Mauritanian authorities recently decided to deny entry to citizens from African countries hit by Ebola to prevent the spread of the deadly virus. In a statement, the Health Ministry said the decision applies to the citizens of Liberia and Sierra Leone.
Distance from Ebola outbreak: 1 450km
Mauritius
Ebola cases: No reported cases of Ebola
Morocco
Ebola cases: No reported cases of Ebola
Travel restrictions: Morocco has not imposed a travel ban or advisory.
Morocco is following the recommendations of WHO and will host Guinea for its match against Togo on the first day of the group stage qualifiers of the Orange Africa Cup of Nations Morocco 2015 on September 5.
Distance from Ebola outbreak: 3 150km
Mozambique
Ebola cases: No reported cases of Ebola
Travel restrictions: There are no travel bans in place.
Mozambique has drawn up a questionnaire that will be asked of all passengers who have come from, or passed through, the West African countries where Ebola has been reported (Guinea, Liberia, Sierra Leone and Nigeria).
Distance from Ebola outbreak: 5 900km
Namibia
Ebola cases: No reported cases of Ebola
Travel restrictions: Namibia has banned all travellers from Guinea, Liberia, Nigeria and Sierra Leone as part of precautionary measures to prevent the virus from reaching Namibia.
Namibian citizens that have travelled to these countries will be entitled to come back into the country, but will be subjected to strict screening at the port of entry to ensure that they are not infected with Ebola.
Distance from Ebola outbreak: 4 400km
Niger
Ebola cases: No reported cases of Ebola
Nigeria
Ebola cases: Nigeria has reported 16 cases of Ebola with five deaths.
Patrick Sawyer, a Liberian official, flew from Liberia to Nigeria after exposure to the virus and died at Lagos soon after arrival. A doctor and nurse who treated Sawyer both died from Ebola.
Travel restrictions: Nigeria's civil aviation authority (NCAA) has started temperature screening passengers arriving from places at risk from Ebola at all major international airports. A compulsory blood test follows if the passenger's temperature gives cause for concern.
Flight cancellations: The Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority, NCAA, has suspended all Asky Airline flight operations to Nigeria. Arik Air has suspended flight operations to Liberia and Sierra Leone.
Distance from Ebola outbreak: 2 100km
Reunion
Ebola cases: No reported cases of Ebola
Rwanda
Ebola cases: No reported cases of Ebola
Sao Tome And Principe
Ebola cases: No reported cases of Ebola
Senegal
Ebola cases: No reported cases of Ebola
Travel restrictions: Senegal has closed its border with Guinea and banned travel to and from Guinea, Liberia and Sierra Leone as a preventative measure.
Travel incidents: According to reports, a regional flight to Dakar, Senegal, that was carrying aid workers from Liberia was prevented from landing on Thursday, August 22.
Distance from Ebola outbreak: 1 200km
Seychelles
Ebola cases: No reported cases of Ebola
Travel restrictions: Seychelles is introducing visa requirements for citizens from countries in the West African region. This includes Sierra Leone, Liberia, Guinea-Bissau, Guinea Conakry, Nigeria, Cameroon, Chad, Niger, Burkina Faso, Senegal, Mali, Benin, Ivory Coast, Ghana, Togo, Congo, DRC, Gambia, Mauritania, and Senegal.
Distance from Ebola outbreak: 7 500km
Sierra Leone
Ebola cases: Sierra Leone has been hit by Ebola with 910 reported cases and 392 deaths.
Travel restrictions: The Sierra Leone Civil Aviation Authority has announced that all passengers going through the Freetown International Airport shall undergo Ebola Virus checks as an integral component of the normal airport screening process. Passengers will be required to wash their hands with chlorinated water, go through a temperature scan and complete a public health passenger form.
Somalia
Ebola cases: No reported cases of Ebola
South Africa
Ebola cases: No reported cases of Ebola
Travel restrictions: South Africa has issued a travel ban for all non-citizens travelling from Guinea, Liberia and Sierra Leone in an attempt to prevent the spread of Ebola into South Africa. Non-citizens will only be allowed into South Africa when travelling from these high-risk countries if the entry into the country is considered 'absolutely essential'.
The South African Department of Health has issued a travel advisory against all but essential travel to Liberia, Guinea or Sierra Leone.
Distance from Ebola outbreak: 5 500km
Sudan
Ebola cases: No reported cases of Ebola
Swaziland
Ebola cases: No reported cases of Ebola
Tanzania
Ebola cases: No reported cases of Ebola
Travel restrictions: All major airports in Tanzania have been equipped with Ebola screening devices for testing passengers arriving from West Africa for the virus.
Distance from Ebola outbreak:5 750km
The Gambia
Ebola cases: No reported cases of Ebola
Togo
Ebola cases: No reported cases of Ebola
Tunisia
Ebola cases: No reported cases of Ebola
Uganda
Ebola cases: No reported cases of Ebola
Travel restrictions: Uganda has intensified screening of travelers coming into the country at Entebbe Airport and other border posts. The ministry of health also issued a warning to Ugandans intending to travel to West Africa to do so only when it is a necessity.
Distance from Ebola outbreak: 4 900km
Western Sahara
Ebola cases: No reported cases of Ebola
Zambia
Ebola cases: No reported cases of Ebola
Travel restrictions: Zambia has issued contradictory information on whether or not it has closed its borders for travellers from Ebola-affected countries.
Health Minister Joseph Kasonde said Zambia has not banned entry into the country for individuals coming from Ebola hit countries, but has issued a travel advisory. He said a travel advisory is not a ban but a travel advice restricting not only nationals of the affected countries but anyone traveling from the affected countries into Zambia. He said anyone suspected of having contracted the Ebola virus would be quarantined.
A statement posted on the Ministry of Health website on Saturday said Zambia would restrict entry of travellers from countries affected by the Ebola virus and would ban Zambians from travelling to those countries.
"All delegates from any of the countries affected by Ebola virus disease are restricted from entering Zambia until further notice," the statement reads.
Distance from Ebola outbreak: 5 000km
Zimbabwe
Ebola cases: No reported cases of Ebola
Travel restrictions: Zimbabwe is 'closely monitoring' all travellers from Nigeria, Sierra Leone, Guinea and Liberia. Health ports have been set up at all the border posts. Port health officer are reportedly interviewing people coming from Ebola zones and examining them for possible symptoms. They are then referred to the hospital for tests.
The government has advised against travel to affected countries.
Distance from Ebola outbreak: 5 350km
Friday, August 22, 2014
Ebola: Limit on non-essential travel
Ebola: Limit on non-essential travel
Updated 22 Aug 2014 @ 09:32
South Africa has imposed a non-essential travel ban for all non-citizens travelling from identified high risk countries to limit the spread of Ebola to the country.
Health Minister Aaron Motsoaledi also said that South African citizens who wish to travel to these countries will be requested to delay their travel unless it is also absolutely essential for them to do so.
The high-risk countries have been identified as Guinea; Sierra Leone; and Liberia. Nigeria; Kenya; and Ethiopia have been identified as medium risk countries.
Additionally, South African citizens returning from these countries will be subjected to stricter screening processes, including completing a comprehensive health questionnaire before gaining entry back into the country. If said questionnaire and a temperature reading raise suspicions, travellers will be subjected to a complete medical examination at designated hospitals.
The travel advisory is part of enhanced precautionary measures to prevent the spread of Ebola into South Africa.
Passengers who travelled from or through Guinea; Liberia; or Sierra Leone within the last month of arrival into South Arica must undergo additional screening at points of entry.
The following information has been highlighted for travellers heading to one of the high-risk countries:
- Practice careful hygiene. Avoid contact with blood and body fluids of sick persons.
- Do not handle items that may have come in contact with an infected person’s blood or body fluids.
- Avoid funeral or burial rituals that require handling the body of someone who has died from Ebola.
- Avoid contact with wild animals or with bush meat.
- Avoid hospitals where Ebola patients are being treated.
- The South African Embassy or consulate is often able to provide advice on facilities that are suitable for your needs.
- Seek medical care immediately if you develop fever; headache; achiness; sore throat; diarrhoea; vomiting; stomach pain; rash; or red eyes.
- Limit your contact with other people when you travel to the doctor. Do not travel anywhere else.
Health Minister Aaron Motsoaledi also said that South African citizens who wish to travel to these countries will be requested to delay their travel unless it is also absolutely essential for them to do so.
The high-risk countries have been identified as Guinea; Sierra Leone; and Liberia. Nigeria; Kenya; and Ethiopia have been identified as medium risk countries.
Additionally, South African citizens returning from these countries will be subjected to stricter screening processes, including completing a comprehensive health questionnaire before gaining entry back into the country. If said questionnaire and a temperature reading raise suspicions, travellers will be subjected to a complete medical examination at designated hospitals.
The travel advisory is part of enhanced precautionary measures to prevent the spread of Ebola into South Africa.
Passengers who travelled from or through Guinea; Liberia; or Sierra Leone within the last month of arrival into South Arica must undergo additional screening at points of entry.
The following information has been highlighted for travellers heading to one of the high-risk countries:
- Practice careful hygiene. Avoid contact with blood and body fluids of sick persons.
- Do not handle items that may have come in contact with an infected person’s blood or body fluids.
- Avoid funeral or burial rituals that require handling the body of someone who has died from Ebola.
- Avoid contact with wild animals or with bush meat.
- Avoid hospitals where Ebola patients are being treated.
- The South African Embassy or consulate is often able to provide advice on facilities that are suitable for your needs.
- Seek medical care immediately if you develop fever; headache; achiness; sore throat; diarrhoea; vomiting; stomach pain; rash; or red eyes.
- Limit your contact with other people when you travel to the doctor. Do not travel anywhere else.
Thursday, August 21, 2014
No more temporary passports for South Africans
No more temporary passports
The Department of Home Affairs will no longer issue temporary
passports from September 1.
A circular from the DHA states that SA citizens have been refused
entry into a number of countries when travelling on temporary passports.
"This has resulted in accusations and claims against the department in
cases where citizens are refused entry into particular country despite the
department having issued the temporary passport.
"Temporary passports have been abused for corruption purposes
and this threat remains, which puts South Africa at risk of its travel
documents being unreliable and not trustworthy. Elimination of temporary
passports aims to remove this risk."
The DHA added that temporary passports were initially issued as an
interim travel document due to longer turn-around times taken to issue a
permanent tourist passport. "This turn-around time has improved
drastically rendering issuance of temporary passports redundant."
Only an Emergency Travel Certificate (ETC) will be issued to an
applicant under circumstances of emergency travel purposes.
Curfew imposed as Ebola crisis grows.
Curfew imposed as Ebola crisis grows.
Updated 20 Aug 2014
Liberian President Ellen Johnson Sirleaf has imposed a night-time curfew starting tonight and quarantined two affected neighbourhoods in a bid to halt the Ebola epidemic in West Africa.
From tonight, August 20, a curfew from 21h00 to 06h00 will be implemented nationwide.
Additionally, all entertainment centres are to be closed, while all video centres will close at 18h00.
The new quarantine areas include Monrovia's West Point slum.
Meanwhile, Liberia's Information Minister Lewis Brown announced the return of 17 missing Ebola patients, who had fled a medical facility in West Point on Saturday after it was attacked.
In other news, a fifth person has died from Ebola in Nigeria.
The outbreak has now killed 1 229 people in West Africa. Strict hygiene standards must be maintained at all times.
Updated 20 Aug 2014
Liberian President Ellen Johnson Sirleaf has imposed a night-time curfew starting tonight and quarantined two affected neighbourhoods in a bid to halt the Ebola epidemic in West Africa.
From tonight, August 20, a curfew from 21h00 to 06h00 will be implemented nationwide.
Additionally, all entertainment centres are to be closed, while all video centres will close at 18h00.
The new quarantine areas include Monrovia's West Point slum.
Meanwhile, Liberia's Information Minister Lewis Brown announced the return of 17 missing Ebola patients, who had fled a medical facility in West Point on Saturday after it was attacked.
In other news, a fifth person has died from Ebola in Nigeria.
The outbreak has now killed 1 229 people in West Africa. Strict hygiene standards must be maintained at all times.
Monday, August 18, 2014
KENYA AIRWAYS - Suspension Of Flights Due To The Ebola Outbreak!
KENYA AIRWAYS - Suspension Of Flights Due To The Ebola Outbreak!
Updated 18th August 2014
Kenya Airways confirms the suspension of their flights on the 19 Aug to Sierra Leone and Monrovia due to the Ebola outbreak and in conformity with WHO and Kenya Ministry of Health. The suspension is until further notice.
Updated 18th August 2014
Kenya Airways confirms the suspension of their flights on the 19 Aug to Sierra Leone and Monrovia due to the Ebola outbreak and in conformity with WHO and Kenya Ministry of Health. The suspension is until further notice.
Tuesday, August 12, 2014
Ebola cases rising - Latest Update
Ebola cases rising
Updated 12 Aug 2014 @ 09:38
Two more people have been infected with Ebola in Nigeria, bringing the total number of cases there to nine as the outbreak spreads through West Africa.
All the infected patients are reportedly in hospital in Lagos.
Two people have died of Ebola in Nigeria.
The country has banned the transport of corpses across national and state borders, in an attempt to halt an outbreak that has killed over 1 000 people in West Africa.
Meanwhile, Senegal has reported its first suspected Ebola case, in the nation's north.
The World Health Organization says 1 013 have died from Ebola in West Africa since February.
All the infected patients are reportedly in hospital in Lagos.
Two people have died of Ebola in Nigeria.
The country has banned the transport of corpses across national and state borders, in an attempt to halt an outbreak that has killed over 1 000 people in West Africa.
Meanwhile, Senegal has reported its first suspected Ebola case, in the nation's north.
The World Health Organization says 1 013 have died from Ebola in West Africa since February.
The Liberian army has put a third province under quarantine in an attempt to halt the spread of the Ebola virus.
Lofa county in the north has now been quarantined by the army. Similar measures have been taken in the provinces of Boma and Grand Cape Mount.
In other news, Liberia will receive an untested experimental drug, Zmapp, to treat people infected with Ebola.
Zmapp has been used in the US on two aid workers who have shown signs of improvement.
However, the drug has only been tested on monkeys and has not yet been evaluated for safety in humans.
Meanwhile, Ivory Coast has banned all passenger flights from the three countries hit the worst by the spread of Ebola: Guinea; Liberia; and Sierra Leone.
It is the second country, after Saudi Arabia, to impose such a ban in a bid to prevent the spread of the deadly virus.
Lofa county in the north has now been quarantined by the army. Similar measures have been taken in the provinces of Boma and Grand Cape Mount.
In other news, Liberia will receive an untested experimental drug, Zmapp, to treat people infected with Ebola.
Zmapp has been used in the US on two aid workers who have shown signs of improvement.
However, the drug has only been tested on monkeys and has not yet been evaluated for safety in humans.
Meanwhile, Ivory Coast has banned all passenger flights from the three countries hit the worst by the spread of Ebola: Guinea; Liberia; and Sierra Leone.
It is the second country, after Saudi Arabia, to impose such a ban in a bid to prevent the spread of the deadly virus.
Friday, August 8, 2014
EBOLA UPDATE - Blockades erected to stop Ebola
Blockades erected to stop Ebola
Updated 08 Aug 2014 @ 09:31
Liberian soldiers have set up a blockade stopping people from western regions affected by the Ebola outbreak from entering the capital, Monrovia.
The action follows the president's declaration of a state of emergency to tackle the outbreak that has killed more than 930 people in West Africa this year.
In Sierra Leone, security forces have now imposed a complete blockade of eastern areas hit by Ebola.
Health experts in Switzerland are currently discussing a response to the outbreak and whether to declare the outbreak a global health emergency.
If a public health emergency is declared, it could involve detailed plans to identify; isolate and treat cases; as well as impose travel restrictions on affected areas.
Meanwhile, the US State Department has ordered all family members of US personnel to leave the embassy in Monrovia because of the Ebola outbreak.
The action follows the president's declaration of a state of emergency to tackle the outbreak that has killed more than 930 people in West Africa this year.
In Sierra Leone, security forces have now imposed a complete blockade of eastern areas hit by Ebola.
Health experts in Switzerland are currently discussing a response to the outbreak and whether to declare the outbreak a global health emergency.
If a public health emergency is declared, it could involve detailed plans to identify; isolate and treat cases; as well as impose travel restrictions on affected areas.
Meanwhile, the US State Department has ordered all family members of US personnel to leave the embassy in Monrovia because of the Ebola outbreak.
Thursday, August 7, 2014
EBOLA UPDATE - State of Emergency declared
EBOLA UPDATE - State of Emergency declared
Updated 07 Aug 2014 @ 09:25
Liberia’s President, Ellen Johnson Sirleaf, has declared a state of emergency as the country grapples with an outbreak of the deadly Ebola virus.
The outbreak has also hit Guinea, Sierra Leone and Nigeria, killing more than 930 people.
World Health Organization (WHO) experts are currently meeting in Geneva, Switzerland, to discuss a response to the outbreak.
The two-day meeting will decide whether to declare a global health emergency.
Yesterday, WHO said 932 patients had died of the disease in West Africa so far, with most of the latest fatalities reported in Liberia, where at least 282 have died of the virus.
Liberia's state of emergency will be in place for 90 days.
Nigeria's Health Minister, Onyebuchi Chukwu, has also described the outbreak as a national emergency, adding that people worldwide are at risk because of air travel.
Meanwhile, Saudi Arabian authorities said that a Saudi man who was treated for Ebola-like symptoms after visiting Sierra Leone has died at a hospital in Jeddah. If confirmed, it would be the first Ebola-related death outside Africa.
Updated 07 Aug 2014 @ 09:25
Liberia’s President, Ellen Johnson Sirleaf, has declared a state of emergency as the country grapples with an outbreak of the deadly Ebola virus.
The outbreak has also hit Guinea, Sierra Leone and Nigeria, killing more than 930 people.
World Health Organization (WHO) experts are currently meeting in Geneva, Switzerland, to discuss a response to the outbreak.
The two-day meeting will decide whether to declare a global health emergency.
Yesterday, WHO said 932 patients had died of the disease in West Africa so far, with most of the latest fatalities reported in Liberia, where at least 282 have died of the virus.
Liberia's state of emergency will be in place for 90 days.
Nigeria's Health Minister, Onyebuchi Chukwu, has also described the outbreak as a national emergency, adding that people worldwide are at risk because of air travel.
Meanwhile, Saudi Arabian authorities said that a Saudi man who was treated for Ebola-like symptoms after visiting Sierra Leone has died at a hospital in Jeddah. If confirmed, it would be the first Ebola-related death outside Africa.
Wednesday, August 6, 2014
Hurricanes set to slam into islands
Hurricanes set to slam into islands
Updated 06 Aug 2014 @ 09:36
Heavy rain, strong winds and rough seas will be some of the effects caused by Hurricane Iselle, which is set to hit Hawaii tomorrow night.
Scattered power outages are expected across the island, including in Honolulu.
Multiple roads could also be washed out on the Big Island; Oahu; Lanai; and Kauai.
Inexperienced swimmers, boarders and boaters should exercise extreme caution in the waters from today onwards as waves will build in strength and number.
The following advice has been issued to residents and travellers alike:
1. Go to the bank and withdraw extra cash.
2. Fill your car's petrol tank.
3. Keep mobile phones and other electronics charged.
4. Get prescription medications refilled and make provisions for any medicines that must be chilled or that require special handling. Power could be out for more than a week if a Hurricane Julio also strikes.
Scattered power outages are expected across the island, including in Honolulu.
Multiple roads could also be washed out on the Big Island; Oahu; Lanai; and Kauai.
Inexperienced swimmers, boarders and boaters should exercise extreme caution in the waters from today onwards as waves will build in strength and number.
The following advice has been issued to residents and travellers alike:
1. Go to the bank and withdraw extra cash.
2. Fill your car's petrol tank.
3. Keep mobile phones and other electronics charged.
4. Get prescription medications refilled and make provisions for any medicines that must be chilled or that require special handling. Power could be out for more than a week if a Hurricane Julio also strikes.
Ebola Outbreak - Update
Updated 06 Aug 2014 @ 09:34
Liberia's Ebola death toll is rising dramatically, while abandoned bodies line streets across the country.
The World Health Organisation is warning of possible catastrophic consequences in West Africa.
A total of 268 people had died of the virus as of August 2, almost 100 more than the toll a week before. Among the dead were 37 health workers and at least 2 497 people are suspected to be infected with Ebola.
The situation has gotten so bad that dead bodies are lying abandoned in the streets as Liberia's authorities are struggling to cope with the outbreak that has killed hundreds across West Africa.
Numerous health facilities have also had to shut down across the country after health care workers were threatened by locals who believe foreigners had brought Ebola into the country.
Travellers are advised to maintain strict hygiene standards at all times.
Meanwhile, a number of airlines have suspended flights to countries in West Africa as a result of the outbreak. British Airways is the latest airline to suspend flights to Sierra Leone and Liberia until August 31.
Updated 06 Aug 2014 @ 09:34
The World Health Organisation is warning of possible catastrophic consequences in West Africa.
A total of 268 people had died of the virus as of August 2, almost 100 more than the toll a week before. Among the dead were 37 health workers and at least 2 497 people are suspected to be infected with Ebola.
The situation has gotten so bad that dead bodies are lying abandoned in the streets as Liberia's authorities are struggling to cope with the outbreak that has killed hundreds across West Africa.
Numerous health facilities have also had to shut down across the country after health care workers were threatened by locals who believe foreigners had brought Ebola into the country.
Travellers are advised to maintain strict hygiene standards at all times.
Meanwhile, a number of airlines have suspended flights to countries in West Africa as a result of the outbreak. British Airways is the latest airline to suspend flights to Sierra Leone and Liberia until August 31.
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