Tolima is the Epicenter of Colombia's Multi-Year Yellow Fever Outbreak

The Republic of Colombia Ministry of Health recently posted on Facebook that it has seen a rise in yellow fever cases over the past two years.

From 2024 to January 4, 2026, Colombian officials reported 142 confirmed cases. This includes 63 deaths.

The mosquito-transmitted disease has been detected in ten departments, each with at least one death from yellow fever. These are Caldas, Caquetá, Cauca, Guaviare, Huila, Meta, Nariño, Putumayo, Tolima, and Vaupés.

While some of these yellow fever cases have occurred in forest areas, others have been reported near Bogotá, the capital city and a tourist destination.

Over the last few years, Tolima, located west of Bogota, has been the most affected area, often accounting for over 80% of yellow fever cases.

According to the World Health Organization and the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the yellow fever vaccine is among the most effective available. It is a live, attenuated vaccine that provides lifelong protection with a single dose for most people.

No booster doses are routinely needed. However, as of January 5, 2026, travel vaccine experts are available to provide insights on yellow fever immunization.

From a security perspective, the United Kingdom (UK) updated its travel advice on January 5, 2026, advising against all but essential travel to parts of Colombia, such as the Colombia-Venezuela border and northern Colombia.

The UK wrote that if you choose to travel to Colombia in 2026, research your destinations and get appropriate insurance.