U.S. Announces Travel Warning Update: 'Exercise Increased Caution'

The U.S. Department of State has updated its travel warning for the country of Comoros.

Where is Comoros? According to Britannica, Comoros is an "independent state comprising three of the main Comoro Islands in the Indian Ocean, off the coast of East Africa." France administers a fourth island, Mayotte.

The Comoros update is one of several travel advisories the State Department upgraded or updated in January 2026. Others include Mali, Benin, and Grenada.

The State Department Added a 'Health Risk Indicator' to the Comoros Travel Warning

The government explained that it was adding a health concern to the warning.

"There was no change to the advisory level. The 'health' risk indicator was added. Advisory summary was updated," wrote the State Department, advising travelers, "Exercise increased caution in Comorosdue to crime, unrest, and health."

The government warned that tourists might have trouble accessing healthcare services.

"Healthcare, including ambulance services, is limited in Moroni," the State Department wrote. "It is very limited in rural areas. Medical care in rural areas often requires transportation to Moroni. Medical evacuation from Comoros is often needed for significant injuries and illnesses."

The State Department Warned That 'Small Crafts on the Open Seas' Might Be Attacked

The warning level is rated a 2 on a scale where the highest risk is given a 4. That doesn't mean there aren't concerns in Comoros. The State Department warned:

• "There is no full-time official U.S. presence in Comoros. Consular services for U.S. citizens in Comoros are provided by the U.S. embassy in Madagascar."
• "Petty crime is common in Comoros. Stay aware of your surroundings. Comoros has also had reports of piracy. Small crafts on the open seas are vulnerable to attack."
• "Protests occur spontaneously in Comoros and can happen due to political factors. Most protests occur in Moroni, and some have turned violent. Protesters have also engaged in the destruction of property."

The State Department offered a number of suggestions for travelers to the area:

• "Enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) to get important updates and alerts from the U.S. embassy or consulate. Enrolling helps the U.S. embassy or consulate contact you or your emergency contact in an emergency."
• "Avoid demonstrations and crowds."
• "Monitor local media for breaking events and be prepared to adjust your plans."
• "Have evacuation plans that do not rely on U.S. government assistance."
• "Keep a low profile."
• "Stay aware of your surroundings."
• "Do not physically resist any robbery attempt."
• "Use caution when walking or driving at night."
• "Do not display signs of wealth, like expensive watches or jewelry."
• "Do not answer your door at your hotel or residence unless you know who it is."
• "Stay alert when visiting banks or ATMs."

Some of the agency's warnings deal with prescription medications and travel insurance.

• "Medical services for routine and emergency procedures are limited. Read the Health section of our Travel Guidance for more information."
• "You should carry prescription medication in its original packaging, along with your doctor’s prescription."
• "Purchase medical evacuation insurance. If you purchase medical travel insurance, you are responsible for seeking reimbursement from your medical insurance.  Be sure to follow their guidance and instructions for filing claims."

Related: