The State Department issued a worldwide travel alert early Monday warning Americans of possible reprisals stemming from the killing of Osama bin Laden in Pakistan.

Sent out shortly after President Obama announced bin Laden's death, the department said there was "enhanced potential for anti-American violence."

"Given the uncertainty and volatility of the current situation, U.S. citizens in areas where recent events could cause anti-American violence are strongly urged to limit their travel outside of their homes and hotels and avoid mass gatherings and demonstrations," the alert said. "U.S. citizens should stay current with media coverage of local events and be aware of their surroundings at all times."

American embassies "in affected areas will continue to the extent possible under the constraints of any evolving security situation," but will stay at a "heightened state of alert," the warning said.

The travel alert expires Aug. 1.