U.S. Embassy Bamako, Mali
Security Message for U.S. Citizens
Update: Ebola Virus Disease in Mali
November 18, 2014
This Security Message provides an update on Ebola Virus Disease (EVD) developments in Mali. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has issued a new Travel Notice for Mali advising travelers in Mali to practice enhanced precautions. The U.S. Embassy in Bamako also reminds U.S. citizens to be vigilant in their personal security in the event of EVD-related unrest.
The Government of Mali (GOM) has now announced several additional confirmed or suspected EVD cases and deaths in Bamako from EVD. Five cases of EVD have been confirmed, and two are suspected. Information to date indicates that of the seven total cases, six have died, and one is being treated and is in stable condition. The GOM along with its international partners are actively tracking contacts of the confirmed and suspected cases. Other suspected cases in different areas of the country have been confirmed as not being related to EVD. The U.S. Embassy continues to monitor the situation closely and to support the efforts of the GOM in its public health response.
The U.S. Embassy in Bamako also informs U.S. citizens that the CDC has issued a new Travel Notice for Mali advising travelers in Mali to practice enhanced precautions. To obtain CDC travel notices, call the CDC at 1-800-CDC-INFO (1-800-232-4636) from within the United States, or 1-404-639-3534 from overseas, or visit the CDC website. For more information on EVD, please visit the CDC Ebola specific website. The U.S. Embassy encourages U.S. citizens to remain vigilant and practice the basic precautionary measures outlined in our prior Security Messages for U.S. Citizens and on the CDC website. While EVD is a dangerous virus, we remind the community that there is low risk of contracting the disease if basic precautionary measures are followed. EVD is not spread by respiratory secretions or casual contact like the flu. It requires direct contact with the bodily fluids of someone severely ill with – or recently deceased from – the disease, or by handling or eating undercooked, contaminated bush meat.
The U.S. Embassy in Bamako also warns U.S. citizens that reports of EVD in Mali may result in public reaction, ranging from support for government efforts to violent unrest. Although we have no information regarding any specific threat or demonstration planned, we expect that rumors and unverified reports will circulate in the coming days, which may adversely impact security situations. Malian security forces will likely increase their visible presence in the city in the coming days. The U.S. Embassy reminds U.S. citizens that even demonstrations intended to be peaceful can turn confrontational and escalate into violence. Avoid areas of demonstrations, and exercise caution in if in the vicinity of any large gatherings, protests, or demonstrations If it is not safe to leave the area, maintain a low profile until you are able to relocate.
The U.S. Embassy continues operations as normal and is closely monitoring the situation in collaboration with local, national, and international partners. Our embassies in neighboring countries are collectively tracking the disease and sharing information as it becomes available.
We strongly recommend that U.S. citizens traveling to or residing in Mali despite the Travel Warning enroll in the Department of State’s Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) at travel.state.gov. STEP enrollment gives you the latest security updates, and makes it easier for the U.S. embassy or nearest U.S. consulate to contact you in an emergency. If you do not have Internet access, enroll directly with the nearest U.S. embassy or consulate.
Regularly monitor the State Department’s website, where you can find current Travel Warnings, Travel Alerts, and the Worldwide Caution. Read the Country Specific Information for Mali. For additional information, refer to the “Traveler’s Checklist” on the State Department’s website.
Contact the U.S. embassy or consulate for up-to-date information on travel restrictions. You can also call 1-888-407-4747 toll-free in the United States and Canada or 1-202-501-4444 from other countries. These numbers are available from 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. Eastern Time, Monday through Friday (except U.S. federal holidays). Follow us on Twitter and Facebook to have travel information at your fingertips.
The U.S. Embassy in Bamako is located at ACI 2000, Rue 243 Porte 297. The Consular Section can be contacted at +223 2070 2505, or via email at acsbamako@state.gov. If you are a U.S. citizen in need of urgent assistance, please contact the Embassy Duty Officer via the Marine Guard at +223 2070 2301 or 2070 2302.
