August 5, 1999
Web posted at: 1:33 p.m. EDT (1733 GMT)

WASHINGTON (CNN) -- The State Department is urging U.S. citizens worldwide to use caution while traveling or living abroad because it "continues to receive reports that prompt concern about the safety and security" of all Americans.

The department issued a public announcement on Wednesday to remind Americans "of the need to remain vigilant with regard to their personal security."

"There is always the possibility that terrorists may take actions against Americans and American interests on or around significant dates," the announcement reads.

It notes the anniversaries of the bombings of U.S. embassies in Nairobi, Kenya, and Dar es Salaam, Tanzania, on August 7, 1998 as well as the U.S. strikes against alleged terrorist targets in Afghanistan and Sudan that followed 13 days later.

The State Department says it's not issuing the statement in response to any one particular threat or event, but to emphasize its "ongoing concern for the security of U.S. citizens overseas."

"Americans should keep a low profile, vary routes and times for all required travel and treat mail from unfamiliar sources with suspicion," the statement says.

The State Department issues public announcements as a means to disseminate information about terrorist threats and other risks posing a possible danger to American citizens.

Americans traveling or living abroad should contact the nearest U.S. embassy or consulate by telephone or fax for up-to-date information on security concerns.