{"metadata":{"generated":{"timestamp":1711390233,"date":"2024-03-25 14:10:33"}},"data":{"country-iso":"ET","advisory-state":2,"has-advisory-warning":1,"has-regional-advisory":1,"has-content":1,"update-metadata":"Editorial change","eng":{"name":"Ethiopia","url-slug":"ethiopia","geo-group":"Africa","flag":null,"friendly-date":"March 25, 2024 13:56 EDT","advisory-text":"Avoid non-essential travel (with regional advisories)","recent-updates":"The Need help? section was updated.","advisories":"
Avoid non-essential travel<\/a> to Ethiopia due to civil unrest, violence, armed conflict and crime. The security situation can deteriorate without warning. This advisory excludes <\/b>Addis Ababa where you should exercise a high degree of caution.<\/p> Additional regional advice and advisories are in effect. Our ability to provide consular assistance is limited in some regions.<\/p><\/p><\/div> Exercise a high degree of caution<\/a> in Addis Ababa due to an increase in robberies and the risk of spontaneous demonstrations becoming violent.<\/span> Ongoing armed conflict and civil unrest in other parts of the country could spread to major cities without warning.<\/p><\/div> Avoid all travel<\/a> to the following areas in the northern regions, due to armed conflict, civil unrest and the volatile security situation: <\/p><\/div> Avoid all travel<\/a> to the following areas in the central regions due to civil unrest, violent crime, kidnapping, armed conflict and airstrikes: <\/p><\/div> Avoid all travel<\/a> to the Somali Region, due to incidences of armed attacks and the risk of terrorism and kidnapping. This includes areas within 30 km from the border with Dire Dawa, Oromia Region, and Afar Region.<\/p> <\/p><\/div> Avoid all travel<\/a> to areas within 50 km of the border with the following countries due to ongoing instability, the high risk of terrorist attacks, kidnapping, violence and landmines: <\/p><\/div>","security":" The situation is volatile and unpredictable in several areas throughout the country due to ethnic conflicts. Violent clashes occur, especially near regional borders. <\/p> Frequent incidents of civil unrest can lead to violence. Sporadic roadblocks, curfews and disruptions to telecommunications services are possible throughout the country.<\/p> If you travel to Ethiopia:<\/p> The state of emergency, declared by the Ethiopian authorities on August 14, 2023, remains in effect in the Amhara region due to continued clashes between armed groups and security forces.<\/p> While a state of emergency is in effect, police and military have the power to:<\/p> There is increasing and spreading violence in the Amhara region. The majority of the instability is taking place in towns and villages along the A2 and B22 highways, as well as along the southern part of the <\/i>A3 highway. The cities of Lalibela, Bahir Dar and Gondar have also been affected. The safety and security situation is changing rapidly and includes violent clashes between armed groups in and around cities, towns and airports. Road blocks and curfews are also being used to restrict movements.<\/p> Due to the potential for violence to increase and spread in this region, you are at high risk of encountering movement restrictions and having no access to communications.<\/p> If you are in the Amhara region affected by the armed conflict:<\/p> Violent clashes between armed groups occur. Inter-ethnic disputes in Amhara have resulted in casualties, including civilians. Although foreigners are <\/b>generally not targeted, there is a risk that you could be caught up in violence.<\/p> A cessation of hostilities agreement was signed on November 2, 2022 between the Government of Ethiopia and the Tigray People's Liberation Front (TPLF), after two years of armed conflict. The agreement has yet to be fully implemented and there remains uncertainty regarding its implications for security in the region.<\/p> Travel in and out of the Tigray region can be restricted without notice and food insecurity remains a major concern. Heightened security measures are in place.<\/p><\/div> Foreigners have been the target of violent crimes, including armed assaults and kidnappings by bandit groups in this area. Cross border tensions and landmines are also a concern. <\/p> Border areas, including regional borders, often see higher criminal activity and violence, including in rural areas. Confrontations between organized criminal groups, ethnic groups, and Ethiopian authorities pose a risk.<\/p> The border with Eritrea is still a heavily militarized security corridor despite the peace agreement signed in 2018. Armed conflict could erupt without notice. Due to the conflict in Tigray, border roads and border crossings with Eritrea are closed. Conditions at the border may change without notice. Landmines pose a risk.<\/p> Inter-ethnic conflicts and banditry are frequent near the border with Kenya. Security forces regularly carry out military operations, which periodically raises tensions.<\/p> Cross-border violence also occurs. Armed groups hostile to the Government of Ethiopia operate in several areas near the border.<\/p> Terrorists maintain a presence in this area, and ethnic conflict has been reported. This includes but is not limited to the Konso Zone and surrounding areas. Kidnapping also poses a risk in this area.<\/p> Sporadic armed clashes over disputed land occur. The risk of terrorism and kidnapping is high in this area. Landmines pose a threat to safety.<\/p> Ethnic tensions and sporadic violence are common. Ethnic militias from South Sudan have crossed into Ethiopia to attack rival communities. The security situation is extremely unstable. The threat of violent crime, civil unrest and tribal clashes is high. Kidnapping and landmines pose a threat to safety.<\/p> Ethnic conflict, violent crime and sporadic violence are of concern in the city of Gambella and its surrounding areas. Armed clashes have caused casualties and damage to foreign companies’ installations in the area.<\/p> Terrorist groups maintain a presence in Somali towns near the Ethiopian border, presenting a risk for cross-border attacks and kidnappings. Violent crime, including armed robbery, occurs. Violent clashes between armed groups and security forces, as well as ethnic violent, are common. Landmines pose a threat to safety.<\/p> Demonstrations, civil unrest, violent crime, armed conflicts, and clashes between security forces and armed groups occur in Oromia, including in areas bordering Amhara. Roadside attacks have also taken place. These incidents are particularly prevalent in the following zones:<\/p> Airstrikes targeting rebel groups in the West Shewa, East Shewa and West Wollega zones have killed hundreds of civilians.<\/p> The security situation could deteriorate without warning. A heightened security presence remains throughout these areas. Local authorities may impose curfews without notice. Internet and cellular data outages could occur.<\/p> There is a threat of kidnapping, particularly in Western Oromia region.<\/p> Civil unrest, including armed conflicts, has resulted in deaths. Violent clashes can occur without warning due to local ethnic tensions.<\/p> Armed conflicts and civil unrest have occurred sporadically across the region. These have led to casualties and mass arrests. Residents have also randomly attacked cars and disrupted road travel. Militia attacks have also occurred. <\/p> The security situation could deteriorate without warning. A heightened security presence remains throughout these areas. Local authorities may impose curfews without notice. Internet and cellular data outages could occur. <\/p> Kidnapping occurs, especially in the Somali, Gambella and Oromia regions (Kellem, East and West Wellega zones), as well as in the border areas with Kenya, Somalia, South Sudan and Eritrea (Danakil Depression).<\/p> If you are travelling in a region prone to kidnapping:<\/p> Petty crime, such as pickpocketing, purse snatching and mugging, occurs, especially in Addis Ababa. Incidents are mostly opportunistic. However, they have been increasingly reported in the following areas:<\/p> Theft from parked cars and burglaries in vacant residences also occur, especially in rural areas, where the police response is limited.<\/p> Crime significantly increases after dark.<\/p> Violent crime is rare in Addis Ababa, but happens. Westerners have been victims of armed assaults and muggings.<\/p> If threatened:<\/p> Demonstrations take place regularly, especially across the Oromia region and Addis Ababa. They can occur without warning. Ethnic tensions and territorial disputes in this area have led to demonstrations and civil unrest near the regional state borders.<\/p> Even peaceful demonstrations can turn violent at any time. They can also lead to disruptions to traffic and public transportation.<\/p> Mass gatherings (large-scale events)<\/a><\/p> There is a threat of terrorism. <\/i><\/b>Regional terror groups continue to threaten Western interests and other potential targets in Ethiopia, including in Addis Ababa. Domestic terror groups also pose an increased threat in some regions, like the Somali region.<\/p> Targets could include:<\/p> Always be aware of your surroundings when in public places.<\/p> Ethiopia is primarily a cash-based economy but credit card and ATM fraud may sometimes occur, especially in large cities. There have been reports of unauthorized charges. Connectivity issues may also be a problem.<\/p> Be cautious when using debit or credit cards:<\/p> Overseas fraud<\/a><\/p> Power outages are frequent nationwide, particularly during the dry season from November to June. Local authorities may impose power rationing.<\/p> Not all buildings have generators. Outages can result in lack of street lighting, restaurants and supermarkets without adequate refrigeration, and gas stations unable to supply fuel.<\/p> Although there are some plans to improve the network, cellular coverage is unreliable and connectivity remains an issue in several parts of the country.<\/p> Local authorities also control telecommunications and may shut down both cell phone and internet systems during periods of civil unrest or ahead of a large planned protest.<\/p> You should not rely on your cell phone in case of emergency, especially outside major cities.<\/p> Periodic fuel and food shortages occur. This may create social tensions and increase food prices.<\/p> Driving standards, vehicle maintenance and road conditions are often poor throughout the country. Traffic accidents are a regular occurrence, especially in Addis Ababa and on the Addis Ababa–Djibouti road.<\/p> Apart from major arteries, roads are generally unpaved. They often lack markings and signage, reflectors and shoulders, even in urban areas. They are poorly lit and maintained.<\/p> Drivers often drive at excessive speed and don’t respect traffic laws. They may be reckless. Poorly maintained vehicles, roaming animals and pedestrians pose further hazards. Armed robbery, carjacking and landmines also pose a threat, especially in border areas<\/p> There is no road assistance and emergency services are limited to nonexistent in several areas. Although improving, the cellular coverage remains unstable outside main cities.<\/p> Traffic accidents occur regularly throughout Ethiopia. Traffic often moves unpredictably.<\/p> Under Ethiopian law, it is illegal to move your vehicle before a police officer arrives if an accident occurs. Large crowd may gather and could become hostile and aggressive.<\/p> If involved in an accident:<\/p> Most public transport is unregulated and unsafe. Hire private transport from a reliable source or use transportation provided by your hotel.<\/p> Minibuses and large buses are often old, poorly maintained and overcrowded.<\/p> Some buses have been attacked on their way from one region to another.<\/p> Only use buses from the airport that have been organised by your hotel or your tour operator.<\/p> Rail services are limited and trains are poorly maintained. Avoid travelling by train.<\/p> Taxis are generally unsafe.<\/p> If travelling by taxi:<\/p> Weather conditions in the Danakil depression area can be fairly arid. Facilities are basic. There is no running water and medical options are very limited.<\/p> You should prepare for excessive heat and difficult terrain, namely around the Erta Ale Volcano.<\/p> If you intend on hiking in this area despite the advisory in place:<\/p> Women travelling alone may be subject to harassment and verbal abuse.<\/p>Advice for women travellers<\/a> We do not make assessments on the compliance of foreign domestic airlines with international safety standards.<\/p> Information about foreign domestic airlines<\/a><\/p>","entry-exit":" Every country or territory decides who can enter or exit through its borders. The Government of Canada cannot intervene on your behalf if you do not meet your destination’s entry or exit requirements.<\/p> We have obtained the information on this page from Ethiopian authorities. It can, however, change at any time.<\/p> Verify this information with the Foreign Representatives in Canada<\/a>.<\/p> Entry requirements vary depending on the type of passport you use for travel.<\/p> Before you travel, check with your transportation company about passport requirements. Its rules on passport validity may be more stringent than the country’s entry rules.<\/p> Your passport must be valid for at least 6 months beyond the date you expect to leave Ethiopia.<\/span><\/p> Different entry rules may apply.<\/p> Official travel<\/a><\/p> While the Government of Canada issues passports with an “X” gender identifier, it cannot guarantee your entry or transit through other countries. You might face entry restrictions in countries that do not recognize the “X” gender identifier. Before you leave, check with the closest foreign representative for your destination.<\/p> Different entry rules may apply when travelling with a temporary passport or an emergency travel document. Before you leave, check with the closest foreign representative for your destination.<\/p> Tourist visa: required Canadians must have a valid visa to enter the country. You may obtain a visa online. If you overstay your visa, you may face daily fines and imprisonment.<\/p> You need the proper visa if you want to conduct a business or volunteering activity. If you fail to do so, you may be fined or detained.<\/p> Ethiopian e-Visa<\/a> – Federal Democratic Republic of Ethiopia<\/p> Authorities may request additional documents if you attempt to enter Ethiopia by vehicle at certain border crossings.<\/p> Contact the Embassy of Canada to Ethiopia, in Addis Ababa, to determine specific entry requirements at land borders.<\/p> Learn more about travelling with children<\/a>.<\/p> Learn about potential entry requirements related to yellow fever <\/a>(vaccines section).<\/p>","health":" This section contains information on possible health risks and restrictions regularly found or ongoing in the destination. Follow this advice to lower your risk of becoming ill while travelling. Not all risks are listed below.<\/p> Consult a health care professional or visit a travel health clinic preferably 6 weeks before you travel to get personalized health advice and recommendations.<\/p><\/div><\/div><\/div> Be sure that your routine vaccinations<\/a>, as per your province or territory<\/a>, are up-to-date before travelling, regardless of your destination.<\/p>\n Some of these vaccinations include measles-mumps-rubella (MMR), diphtheria, tetanus, pertussis, polio, varicella (chickenpox), influenza and others.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n You may be at risk for preventable diseases while travelling in this destination. Talk to a travel health professional about which medications or vaccines may be right for you, based on your destination and itinerary. <\/p> Yellow fever<\/a> <\/span>is a disease caused by a flavivirus from the bite of an infected mosquito.<\/p>\n Travellers get vaccinated either because it is required to enter a country or because it is recommended for their protection.<\/p>\n Risk<\/strong><\/p>\n Country Entry Requirement*<\/strong><\/p>\n Recommendation<\/strong><\/p>\n <\/p>\n About Yellow Fever<\/a> Yellow Fever Vaccination Centres in Canada<\/a> There is a risk of hepatitis A<\/a> in this destination. It is a disease of the liver. People can get hepatitis A if they ingest contaminated food or water, eat foods prepared by an infectious person, or if they have close physical contact (such as oral-anal sex) with an infectious person, although casual contact among people does not spread the virus.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n Practise safe food and water precautions<\/a> and wash your hands often. Vaccination is recommended for all travellers to areas where hepatitis A is present. <\/p><\/details> Malaria<\/a> is a serious and sometimes fatal disease that is caused by parasites spread through the bites of mosquitoes. Antimalarial medication may be recommended<\/a> depending on your itinerary and the time of year you are travelling. Consult a health care professional or visit a travel health clinic before travelling to discuss your options. It is recommended to do this 6 weeks before travel, however, it is still a good idea any time before leaving. In this destination, rabies<\/a> is commonly carried by dogs and some wildlife, including bats. Rabies is a deadly disease that spreads to humans primarily through bites or scratches from an infected animal. While travelling, take precautions<\/a>, including keeping your distance from animals (including free-roaming dogs), and closely supervising children.<\/p>\n If you are bitten or scratched by a dog or other animal while travelling, immediately wash the wound with soap and clean water and see a health care professional. In this destination, rabies treatment may be limited or may not be available, therefore you may need to return to Canada for treatment.<\/strong> <\/p>\n Before travel, discuss rabies vaccination with a health care professional. It may be recommended for travellers who are at high risk of exposure (e.g., occupational risk such as veterinarians and wildlife workers, children, adventure travellers and spelunkers, and others in close contact with animals). <\/p><\/details> The World Health Organization (WHO) has identified this country as no longer poliovirus-infected but at high risk of an outbreak<\/a>. Polio can be prevented by vaccination.<\/p>\n Recommendations:<\/strong><\/p>\n Measles<\/a> is a highly contagious viral disease. It can spread quickly from person to person by direct contact and through droplets in the air.<\/p>\n Anyone who is not protected against measles is at risk of being infected with it when travelling internationally.<\/p>\n Regardless of where you are going, talk to a health care professional before travelling to make sure you are fully protected against measles.<\/p><\/details> Hepatitis B<\/a> is a risk in every destination. It is a viral liver disease that is easily transmitted from one person to another through exposure to blood and body fluids containing the hepatitis B virus. Travellers who may be exposed to blood or other bodily fluids (e.g., through sexual contact, medical treatment, sharing needles, tattooing, acupuncture or occupational exposure) are at higher risk of getting hepatitis B.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n Hepatitis B vaccination is recommended for all travellers. Prevent hepatitis B<\/a> infection by practicing safe sex, only using new and sterile drug equipment, and only getting tattoos and piercings in settings that follow public health regulations and standards.<\/p><\/details> Coronavirus disease (COVID-19) <\/a><\/span>is an infectious viral disease. It can spread from person to person by direct contact and through droplets in the air.<\/span><\/p>\n It is recommended that all eligible travellers complete a COVID-19 vaccine series along with any additional recommended doses in Canada before travelling. Evidence shows that vaccines are very effective at preventing severe illness, hospitalization and death from COVID-19. While vaccination provides better protection against serious illness, you may still be at risk of infection from the virus that causes COVID-19. Anyone who has not completed a vaccine series is at increased risk of being infected with the virus that causes COVID-19 and is at greater risk for severe disease when travelling internationally. <\/span><\/p>\n Before travelling, verify your destination’s COVID-19 vaccination entry\/exit requirements. Regardless of where you are going, talk to a health care professional before travelling to make sure you are adequately protected against COVID-19. <\/span><\/p><\/details> The best way to protect yourself from seasonal influenza<\/a> (flu) is to get vaccinated every year. Get the flu shot<\/a> at least 2 weeks before travelling. <\/p>\n The flu occurs worldwide. <\/p>\n The flu vaccine available in one hemisphere may only offer partial protection against the flu in the other hemisphere.<\/p>\n The flu virus spreads from person to person when they cough or sneeze or by touching objects and surfaces that have been contaminated with the virus. Clean your hands often and wear a mask if you have a fever or respiratory symptoms.<\/p><\/details> This destination is in the African Meningitis Belt, an area which has the highest rates of meningococcal disease in the world. Meningococcal disease<\/a> is a serious and sometimes fatal infection. <\/p>\n Travellers who are at higher risk should discuss vaccination with a health care provider. High-risk travellers include those living or working with the local population (e.g., health care workers) or those travelling to crowded areas or taking part in large gatherings.<\/p><\/details> Many illnesses can be caused by eating food or drinking beverages contaminated by bacteria, parasites, toxins, or viruses, or by swimming or bathing in contaminated water.<\/p>\n <\/p> Risk<\/strong><\/p>\r\n Cholera<\/a> is a risk in parts of this country. Most travellers are at very low risk.<\/p>\r\n To protect against cholera, all travellers should practise safe food and water precautions<\/a>.<\/p>\r\n Travellers at higher risk of getting cholera include those:<\/p>\r\n Vaccination may be recommended for high-risk travellers, and should be discussed with a health care professional.<\/p><\/details> Travellers' diarrhea<\/a> is the most common illness affecting travellers. It is spread from eating or drinking contaminated food or water.<\/p>\n Risk of developing travellers' diarrhea increases when travelling in regions with poor standards of hygiene and sanitation. Practise safe food and water precautions.<\/p>\n The most important treatment for travellers' diarrhea is rehydration (drinking lots of fluids). Carry oral rehydration salts when travelling.<\/p><\/details> Typhoid<\/a> <\/span>is a bacterial infection spread by contaminated food or water. Risk is higher among children, travellers going to rural areas, travellers visiting friends and relatives or those travelling for a long period of time.<\/p>\n Travellers visiting regions with a risk of typhoid, especially those exposed to places with poor sanitation, should speak to a health care professional about vaccination. <\/p><\/details> There is a risk of schistosomiasis<\/a> in this destination. Schistosomiasis is a parasitic disease caused by tiny worms (blood flukes) which can be found in freshwater (lakes, rivers, ponds, and wetlands). The worms can break the skin, and their eggs can cause stomach pain, diarrhea, flu-like symptoms, or urinary problems. Schistosomiasis mostly affects underdeveloped and rural communities, particularly agricultural and fishing communities.<\/span><\/p>\n Most travellers are at low risk. Travellers should avoid contact with untreated freshwater such as lakes, rivers, and ponds (e.g., swimming, bathing, wading, ingesting). There is no vaccine or medication available to prevent infection.<\/p><\/details> Many diseases are spread by the bites of infected insects such as mosquitoes, ticks, fleas or flies. When travelling to areas where infected insects may be present:<\/p>\n To learn more about how you can reduce your risk of infection and disease caused by bites, both at home and abroad, visit our insect bite prevention<\/a> page.<\/p>\n Find out what types of insects are present where you’re travelling, when they’re most active, and the symptoms of the diseases they spread.<\/p> There is a risk of chikungunya in this country. The risk may vary between regions of a country. Chikungunya<\/a> is a virus spread through the bite of an infected mosquito. Chikungunya can cause a viral disease that typically causes fever and pain in the joints. In some cases, the joint pain can be severe and last for months or years.<\/p>\n Protect yourself from mosquito bites at all times. There is no vaccine available for chikungunya.<\/p><\/details> Cutaneous and mucosal <\/span>Addis Ababa - Exercise a high degree of caution<\/h3>
Northern regions - Avoid all travel<\/h3>
Central regions - Avoid all travel<\/h3>
Somali - Avoid all travel<\/h3>
Border areas - Avoid all travel<\/h3>
Amhara region<\/h3>
Tigray region<\/h3>
Danakil Depression (Afar region)<\/h3>
Border areas<\/h3>
Eritrea<\/h4>
Kenya<\/h4>
Sudan<\/h4>
South Sudan<\/h4>
Gambella region<\/h3>
Somali region<\/h3>
Oromia region<\/h3>
Benishangul Gumuz region<\/h3>
Southern Nations, Nationalities, and Peoples region<\/h3>
Kidnapping<\/h3>
Crime<\/h3>
Petty crime<\/h4>
Violent crime<\/h4>
Demonstrations and civil unrest<\/h3>
Terrorism<\/h3>
Fraud<\/h3>
Outages and shortages<\/h3>
Power<\/h4>
Communications<\/h4>
Fuel and food<\/h4>
Road safety<\/h3>
Accidents<\/h4>
Public transportation<\/h4>
Buses<\/h4>
Train<\/h4>
Taxis<\/h4>
Hiking in the Danakil Depression<\/h3>
Women’s safety<\/h3>
<\/h3><\/div>
Air travel<\/h3>
Passport<\/h3>
Regular Canadian passport<\/h4>
Passport for official travel<\/h4>
Passport with “X” gender identifier<\/h4>
Other travel documents<\/h4>
Useful links<\/h4>
Visas<\/h3>
Business visa: required
Transit visa: required<\/p>Other entry requirements<\/h3>
Children and travel<\/h3>
Yellow fever<\/h3>
Relevant Travel Health Notices<\/h3>
Routine vaccines<\/h3>\n
Pre-travel vaccines and medications<\/h3>\n
Yellow Fever - Country Entry Requirements <\/summary>
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* It is important to note that country entry requirements<\/a> may not reflect your risk of yellow fever at your destination. It is recommended that you contact the nearest diplomatic or consular office<\/a> of the destination(s) you will be visiting to verify any additional entry requirements.<\/p><\/details>Hepatitis A<\/summary>
Malaria <\/summary>
There is a risk of malaria in certain areas and\/or during a certain time of year in this destination. <\/strong><\/p>\n
Protect yourself from mosquito bites<\/a> at all times:
• Cover your skin and use an approved<\/a> insect repellent on uncovered skin.
• Exclude mosquitoes from your living area with screening and\/or closed, well-sealed doors and windows.
• Use insecticide-treated bed nets if mosquitoes cannot be excluded from your living area.
• Wear permethrin-treated clothing.
If you develop symptoms<\/a> similar to malaria when you are travelling or up to a year after you return home, see a health care professional immediately. Tell them where you have been travelling or living. <\/p><\/details>Rabies <\/summary>
Polio <\/summary>
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Measles <\/summary>
Hepatitis B<\/summary>
COVID-19<\/summary>
Influenza<\/summary>
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Meningococcal disease <\/summary>
Safe food and water precautions<\/h3>\n
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Cholera<\/summary>
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Travellers' diarrhea<\/summary>
Typhoid <\/summary>
Schistosomiasis<\/summary>
Insect bite prevention<\/h3>\n
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Chikungunya<\/summary>
Cutaneous and mucosal Leishmaniasis <\/summary>