ASIA

South Korea (Security threat level – 2) : On 28 January 2022, authorities announced that revised coronavirus-related regulations will go into effect on 4 February. These include reducing the length of quarantine for incoming international travelers to seven days from 10, and lifting the existing travel ban on short-term travelers from 11 African countries, including South Africa and Ethiopia. Additionally, beginning on 3 February many local hospitals will provide self-test kits and at-home treatment. As of 29 January, several testing sites throughout the country will provide both rapid and PCR tests for individuals looking to get tested for the virus.

MIDDLE EAST AND NORTH AFRICA

Morocco (Security threat level – 3): On 27 January 2022, authorities announced that the country will lift a ban on arriving international commercial flights as of 7 February. Morocco initially banned all international passenger flights in November 2021 in response to the emergence of the omicron variant of COVID-19. Authorities plan to announce further entry requirements for international passengers at a later date.

SUB-SAHARAN AFRICA

Burkina Faso (Security threat level – 4): On 27 January 2022, Burkina Faso’s new leader Lt. Col. Paul Henri Sandaogo Damiba eased the ongoing countrywide nightly curfew that was enacted following the 24 January military takeover. The curfew is now in effect during 0000-0400 local time, instead of 2100-0500 local time/UTC. The security situation in the capital Ouagadougou has remained calm since the ouster of President Roch Kaboré.

GOVERNMENT WARNINGS

Myanmar (Security threat level – 4): On 28 January 2022, the U.S. Embassy in Yangon issued a Security Alert regarding the anniversary of the February 2021 military coup, which reads in part as follows: “The Embassy is aware of potential rallies and a silent strike throughout Burma on February 1st and February 2nd, 2022, to protest the military’s February 2021 coup. The Embassy advises all Americans to avoid travel and outdoor activity on those days.

“The Embassy advises all Americans that the anniversary of the military coup could result in heightened tensions in Yangon and outlying areas. Recent explosions and attacks in Yangon present a serious threat to American citizens and may increase in frequency and intensity. In addition, a security response of unknown proportions may result. Roadblocks and security operations are a particular concern.

“The Embassy advises Americans to avoid public gatherings and limit their outside activities. Review your personal security plans and keep a low profile. Anticipate possible communication outages and have a plan in the event telecommunications become limited or unavailable. Advise family and associates of this possibility in advance. Always keep some form of communication with you, keep your electronic devices charged, and monitor local events. Maintain an adequate stock of food and water should you need to shelter in place for several days. Updates from the Embassy may not be readily accessible due to an outage during a crisis.

“The current Level 4 Travel Advisory is the highest level issued by the Department of State and advises U.S. citizens not to travel to Burma or to leave as soon as it is safe to do so. As a result of these conditions, if you experience an emergency, the U.S. Embassy has a very limited ability to provide assistance.”