Warden Messages
Warden Message – Update on Medical Situation in Zambia
October 3, 2008
This Warden Message is related to recent rumors regarding an illness that took the life of a Lusaka resident and her caregiver. The Embassy believes that this illness does not pose a significant threat to the American community in Lusaka or across Zambia at this time.
The U.S. Embassy has consulted with epidemiologists with the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, local medical practitioners, and the Government of the Republic of Zambia to understand the nature and extent of this illness. There have been no further reported cases related to the initial patient and it appears that transmission has been contained.
The Embassy will continue to monitor events and will share information through the warden network as necessary. Should an American citizen experience a health emergency, the Embassy recommends that they seek immediate medical attention. If necessary, the Embassy can be reached at 260-211-250-955 on a twenty-four hour basis.
Americans traveling abroad should regularly monitor the U.S. Embassy’s website the U.S. Department of State's, Bureau of Consular Affairs’ website www.travel.state.gov , where the current Worldwide Caution, Travel Warnings, Travel Alerts, and Country Specific Information can be found. In addition to information on the Internet, travelers may obtain up-to-date information on security conditions by calling 1-888-407-4747 toll-free in the U.S. and Canada, or outside the U.S. and Canada on a regular toll line at 1-202-501-4444. To obtain Centers For Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) travel notices, you may dial the CDC at 1-800-CDC-INFO (1-800-232-4636) from within the U.S., and at 1-404-639-3534 from overseas, or visit their website at http://www.cdc.gov/travel.
The U.S. Embassy is located at the corner of Independence and United Nations Avenue, tel. 260-211-250-955.