Welcome to On Call International’s Blog

Sub-Saharan Africa South Africa’s Anti-Immigration Movement Signals Growing Community-Level Tensions Rising anti-immigration mobilization in South Africa is increasing localized disruption risks in key urban centers, driven by broader economic and political pressures.  In recent weeks, the movement has become a more visible factor shaping the country’s internal security environment. For travelers and organizations, these tensions

This On Call International article will discuss the following: What travelers need to know about the current Ebola outbreak, including how Ebola Virus Disease spreads, developments related to the outbreak in the Democratic Republic of the Congo and Uganda, and why the overall risk to most travelers remains low when proper precautions are followed. How

This On Call International article will discuss the following: What travelers should know about hantavirus and the current Andes virus situation, including how the virus spreads, where the highest-risk regions are located, and why the overall risk to most travelers remains low despite recent reports in South America. Practical steps travelers can take to reduce

This On Call International article will discuss the following: The importance of addressing mental health as part of international academic travel, including the unique emotional, cultural, and environmental stressors students, faculty, and researchers may encounter while studying, teaching, or conducting research abroad. How institutions can better prepare and support travelers’ mental wellbeing, through pre-departure planning,

This On Call International article will discuss the following: How older adults can prepare for safe and successful travel, including the importance of pre-travel medical evaluations, understanding health risks, reviewing insurance and emergency assistance coverage, and planning for destination-specific health considerations. Best practices for managing medications, medical needs, and travel logistics, covering medication management, medical

This On Call International article will discuss the following: The unique mental health considerations associated with international academic travel, including how cultural adjustment, identity-related challenges, access to care, and destination-specific mental health resources can impact students, faculty, and researchers abroad. How institutions can better prepare and support travelers’ mental wellbeing, through pre-departure education, wellness planning,

  Americas When the Rains Arrive: Travel Risk Across Latin America As the rainy season takes hold across Central America, southern Mexico, Colombia, and much of Brazil, travel risk begins to shift in ways that are often underestimated. Unlike hurricanes or major storms, disruption is rarely driven by a single event. Instead, risk builds gradually

This On Call International article will discuss the following: How travel scams are evolving alongside modern travel habits and technology, including the rise of social engineering tactics that exploit trust, urgency, distraction, and digital behaviors through scams such as impersonation messages, QR-code fraud, fake accommodation listings, and online relationship schemes. Why travelers are vulnerable to

This On Call International article will discuss the following: What sustainable travel is and why it matters, highlighting how travelers can reduce their environmental impact through thoughtful transportation choices, responsible planning, and everyday habits that support a healthier planet. Practical ways travelers can make their trips more environmentally friendly, including reducing emissions, choosing eco-friendly accommodations,