Cholera: Cuba

According to WHO, the Democratic Republic of the Congo’s Ministry of Health has reported approximately 1,000 cases of cholera in the city of Kisangani, Oriental Province, since March 2011. Cholera vaccine, available in many countries, but not in the U.S., is recommended for aid and refugee workers only. Extreme care in hygiene and food habits…

A 6.3-magnitude earthquake and subsequent aftershocks occurred near Christchurch on February 22, 2011. Casualties have been reported. Property and infrastructure damage is extensive, and aftershocks are likely to continue. Transportation, telecommunications, and basic services may be disrupted. Travelers should avoid affected areas and monitor the situation through local media.

Authorities in Japan have declared a nuclear emergency following the loss of power to ten nuclear reactor units in three separate nuclear power plants (Onagawa, Fukushima Daiichi and Fukiushima Daini). The cooling systems at both Daiichi and Daini experienced problems. Daiichi experienced explosions in three units (Nos. 1, 2 and 3) and a fire has…

Dengue Fever is the most common viral disease spread by a mosquito bite. Outbreaks have become more and more frequent as 40% of the worlds population live in dengue risk zones. Dengue is widespread amoungst parts of Central and South America, the Carribean, South and Southeast Asia, Western, Eastern and Central Africa and Oceania. There is…

In response to political violence in North Bengal, including Darjeeling, an indefinite strike has been called, starting February 9, 2011. Transportation and basic services may be disrupted. Strikes have been intermittent throughout 2011. Travelers are advised to exercise caution and seek local advice before traveling to these areas.