UK travellers have been warned as cases of yellow fever have been confirmed in nine countries. Since the start of 2026, 95 confirmed cases have been reported worldwide.
Yellow fever is a serious infection spread by mosquitoes that can be fatal. It is typically found in parts of Africa and South and Central America. Vaccination is recommended before travel to certain areas.
Affected Countries
Travel Health Pro reported that cases have been confirmed in Bolivia, Brazil, Colombia, Ecuador, Peru, Venezuela, Burkina Faso, the Central African Republic, and Cameroon. Suspected cases have also been reported in Angola, Côte d’Ivoire, Gabon, Ghana, and Nigeria.
In 2025, there was a 5.6-fold increase in yellow fever cases compared to 2024.
Americas and Africa
In the Americas, yellow fever is a risk in 13 countries and territories. In 2025, 346 confirmed human cases (including 143 deaths) were reported from seven countries. Since the beginning of 2026, 79 confirmed cases have been reported from six countries: Bolivia, Brazil, Colombia, Ecuador, Peru and Venezuela.
In Africa, yellow fever remains a risk in 29 countries. Since 2023, eight countries with no recent history of the virus have detected new cases. In 2025, outbreaks were reported in Angola and the Central African Republic. Since the start of 2026, 16 confirmed cases have been reported from Burkina Faso, the Central African Republic, and Cameroon.
Advice for Travellers
Before travelling, check the TravelHealthPro Country Information pages to find out whether there is a risk of yellow fever, whether the vaccine is recommended, and whether a vaccination certificate is needed to enter the country. Comprehensive travel insurance is also recommended.
Symptoms
According to the NHS, symptoms usually start three to six days after a mosquito bite. They include high temperature, headache, feeling or being sick, aches and pains, loss of appetite, and feeling generally unwell. These often last three or four days.
A small number of people develop more serious symptoms within 24 hours, including jaundice, dark urine, stomach pain, and bleeding from the eyes, nose, mouth, or stomach. The NHS says: “These more serious symptoms can be fatal.”
Anyone feeling unwell after travelling to a country where yellow fever is found should seek urgent medical advice.
