After U.S. forces killed Al Qaeda leader Osama bin Laden Sunday, the U.S. State Department released a travel warning cautioning citizens abroad to be aware of retaliation efforts, particularly in areas prone to anti-American violence.

The notice, issued this morning and effective through August, urges travelers to remain inside their homes or hotels and to stay away from mass protests and gatherings.

The TSA has not yet activated its new terror alert system, though airports nationwide – including Boston’s Logan Airport, where the two planes that struck the World Trade Center in 2001 originated – are bolstering security and operating on higher alert in light of bin Laden’s death.

As always, enrolling in the State Department’s Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) before leaving the country is a wise move. If a crisis does arise – terrorism-related or otherwise – the consulate can more easily distribute information and track down citizens in at-risk areas.