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Maoist Strikes Threaten Nepal; 22 Countries have Reported First Cases of Avian Flu among Birds in 2006.

15 March 2006

Philadelphia

International SOS, the world's leading provider of medical and security assistance services, international healthcare, and outsourced customer care, offers travel alerts to members traveling overseas to warn them of security risks or medical problems they may encounter at their destinations or en route. The following is a sample of locations that may represent current security and medical risks for global travelers.

Nepal - March 13, 2006 - Government to Stop Maoist Strikes
Reports indicate that Maoists may attempt to indefinitely blockade major roads across Nepal starting March14. Nepal's royalist government has indicated that it would stop any attempt by Maoist rebels to do so. Political parties and activists have called on Maoist rebels to call off the strike.

If the strike proceeds, it would increase the risk from violence and would severely disrupt road travel. Violent incidents in the form of clashes between Maoist rebels and government soldiers, as well as landmine attacks, may occur along major highways. Maoists have been known to plant landmines along roads to discourage travel during periods of strikes.

The strike may also leave travelers stranded in rural locations for long periods or until the strike is lifted.

International SOS advises its members that essential business travel to Nepal may proceed, however travelers should exercise extra security precautions against the continuing threat of civil unrest and violence.

Pakistan - March 13, 2006 - Protests in Karachi, Multan
Issue-based protests occurred in the cities of Karachi and Multan on Sunday.

A demonstration in Karachi against the suspected detention of political activists in Sindh and Balochistan provinces turned violent when protestors attempted to block roads and attacked private vehicles in Malir and Khokrapar. Demonstrators also burned tires in Chakiwara, Nawa Lane, and Sango Lane in Lyari Town. Gunshots were also fired into the air. The violent demonstrations forced shops and markets in the area to close. There were no reports that the protest in Karachi affected the main financial district or foreigners. The demonstrations occurred in a local enclave that is unlikely to be visited by foreign travelers and expatriates.

Meanwhile, an estimated 2,000 Islamic activists protested in Multan against controversial Danish cartoons of the Muslim prophet, Muhammad. The protest occurred in Multan's Chowk Manzoor. Protestors denounced Denmark, as well as the United States, Norway, Italy and Israel. There were no reported incidents of violence during the rally.

The tempo and frequency of protests against the controversial cartoons have slowed in the last three weeks. The rallies in Multan are also unlikely to continue unless anti-Western sentiment is sparked by external developments.

International SOS advises its members that essential business travel to Pakistan can proceed. Travelers should contact International SOS security for specific advice on security precautions in Pakistan.

March 13, 2006 - Myanmar – Possible bird flu outbreak
Myanmar has reported an outbreak of H5N1 avian flu to the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) and the World Organization for Animal Health (OIE). Reports indicate that 112 chickens died in Mandalay last week. A flock of 780 birds was culled on the affected farm in Aung Myae Thar Zan Township.  National health officials increased surveillance in the area. It is unknown if the military government will grant international experts entry to help assess and manage the situation. Myanmar borders China, Thailand and Laos, all of which have been affected by highly pathogenic avian influenza.

Avian influenza A/H5N1 has caused outbreaks in poultry in an increasing number of countries. At least 22 countries in Europe, Asia, the Middle East, and Africa have reported their first cases among birds since the beginning of 2006. For further information, see the International SOS Pandemic Preparedness Website. There, you can access the latest news, detailed information on flu-affected countries and pandemic preparedness planning information.

Medical and Security Alerts
International SOS alerts are compiled through numerous resources including physicians and security experts on the ground in 48 countries, and individuals coordinating information from a broad range of resources, including the World Health Organization, the Centers for Disease Control and the US State Department.

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