Yellow fever update: Cases continue to rise in Africa and South America
A 5.6-fold increase in cases in the Americas and ongoing outbreaks in Africa highlight the importance of vaccination and bite avoidance.
Yellow fever cases continue to be reported in Africa and South America, with a significant increase in the Americas and ongoing outbreaks in multiple African countries. Vaccination and mosquito bite avoidance remain the most effective ways to prevent this potentially fatal viral disease.
Americas
In 2025, 346 confirmed cases (143 deaths) were reported from seven countries — a 5.6-fold increase compared to 2024. In 2026, 79 confirmed cases from six countries so far.
Africa
Since 2023, eight countries with no recent history of YF activity have detected new cases. In 2026, 16 confirmed cases from Burkina Faso, Central African Republic, and Cameroon.
🔑 Key takeaways
Vaccination is key
YF vaccination is one of the most successful public health interventions. However, the COVID-19 pandemic has led to reduced vaccine coverage in many areas, increasing outbreak risk.
Expanding geographic spread
In South America, cases are now being reported outside the Amazon region, including São Paulo State (Brazil) and Tolima Department (Colombia). Venezuela has reported cases in areas not previously considered at risk.
Urban outbreak risk
Jungle transmission occurring close to urban centres increases the risk of urban outbreaks. Aedes mosquitoes are common in many urban areas, especially in Africa, enabling rapid transmission.
🌎 Region of the Americas
2025–2026 case data
- 2025: 346 confirmed human cases (143 deaths) from seven countries — a 5.6-fold increase vs. 2024
- 2026 (to date): 79 confirmed cases from Bolivia, Brazil, Colombia, Ecuador, Peru, and Venezuela
In 2024, most cases were from the Amazon region. Now, cases are spreading to wider geographic areas, including São Paulo State and Tolima Department.
Risk factors
- Jungle transmission near urban centres
- Reduced vaccine coverage
- New risk areas in Venezuela
The risk of YF outbreaks in South America remains high.
🌍 African Region
Ongoing outbreaks
Since 2023, eight countries with no recent history of YF activity have detected new cases, indicating virus circulation in areas with low vaccination coverage.
In 2025, outbreaks were reported in Angola and Central African Republic.
2026 cases
16 confirmed cases from three countries:
- Burkina Faso
- Central African Republic
- Cameroon
Suspected cases also reported from Angola, Côte d'Ivoire, Gabon, Ghana, and Nigeria.
✈️ Advice for travellers
Before you travel:
- Check TravelHealthPro Country Information pages for your destination
- Find out if YF vaccination is recommended or required for entry
- Arrange an appointment with a designated Yellow Fever Vaccination Centre (YFVC)
- Ensure you have comprehensive travel insurance
💉 YF vaccine is recommended for travellers aged 9 months and older visiting countries where there is a risk of YF transmission, unless there is a medical reason not to have it.
🦟 Mosquito bite avoidance is essential both during the day and at night.
👨⚕️ Advice for health professionals
Risk assessment
Advise travellers about destination-specific risks using TravelHealthPro Country Information. Use the Yellow fever pre-vaccination checklist and contraindications reminder when undertaking risk assessment.
Stay informed
Access the Outbreak Surveillance section for current outbreak information. Remind travellers about other vaccine- and non-vaccine preventable diseases, including malaria.
- Yellow fever factsheet – TravelHealthPro
- Mosquito bite avoidance – UK Health Security Agency
- Eliminate yellow fever epidemics (EYE) strategy 2017-2026 – WHO
- Yellow fever – WHO
⏱ Last updated: July 2026 | This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult a travel health professional for personal risk assessment.