Increase in yellow fever cases in South America: be prepared
Travelling to South America this year? Then make sure your yellow fever vaccination is in order. The disease is becoming increasingly common, and recent figures show a marked increase.
Number of cases and deaths increasing
An outbreak of yellow fever is ongoing in several countries in South America. Since late 2024, the number of cases has been increasing markedly in Bolivia, Brazil, Colombia, Ecuador, Venezuela, Guyana and Peru. According to the Pan American Health Organisation (PAHO), a total of 350 confirmed cases have been reported by 2025, including 148 deaths (case fatality rate: 42%). New infections continue to be reported in 2026: up to 6 March, 28 cases have been recorded, 13 of them fatal.
Most infections occur in forested and tropical areas, but travel and migration can increase the risks.
What is yellow fever?
Yellow fever is a viral infectious disease that occurs in tropical areas of Africa and South America. People become infected through the sting of an infected mosquito. Symptoms usually start with fever, headache, muscle aches and nausea. Severe cases can lead to jaundice, liver and kidney problems and haemorrhage.The disease does not spread directly from person to person, but only through infected mosquitoes.
What happens in case of infection?
There is no direct treatment for yellow fever. The disease is treated supportively, with plenty of rest, fluids and medical care in case of severe symptoms.
- Mild cases usually recover within 1-2 weeks.
- Severe cases can deteriorate rapidly and sometimes be fatal.
Vaccination: sometimes compulsory, always recommended
You can get vaccinated against yellow fever; the one-time shot offers lifelong protection. For travellers from the Netherlands to a high-risk area, vaccination is highly recommended. Some countries require proof of vaccination on arrival if you come from a high-risk country. Therefore, it is wise to arrange the vaccination already in the Netherlands to avoid any problems upon entry.
Vaccination Point gives personal advice
Want to know more about vaccinations or personal advice for your trip? At Vaccination Point, you can easily make an appointment for a travel consultation. Our traveller's nurses will review the health risks for your destination and advise which vaccinations are needed or recommended for you. After that, you can quickly visit one of our more than 90 locations across the country.
Source: LCR, 6 March 2026.
