WHO: South America experiences sharp rise in yellow fever

The World Health Organization (WHO) has recorded more than a threefold increase in yellow fever cases in South American countries in 2025 compared to the previous year.

Between December 29, 2024, and April 26, 2025, a total of 212 confirmed cases were identified in Bolivia, Brazil, Colombia, Peru, and Ecuador, Caliber.Az reports, citing foreign media.

The WHO is particularly concerned about the spread of yellow fever beyond the Amazon Basin, specifically to São Paulo state in Brazil and Tolima Department in Colombia.

The organisation highlights that in Colombia, the population remains highly vulnerable due to the lack of large-scale preventive measures. The WHO assesses the public health risk in the region as high.

Since December 29, 2024, Brazil has reported 110 cases, Colombia has recorded 60 cases, Peru 35, Ecuador four, and Bolivia three.

"The WHO stresses the importance of active surveillance, timely laboratory testing, cross-border coordination, and information sharing. Vaccination remains the primary method for preventing and controlling yellow fever," the organisation said in a statement.

Despite the current outbreak, the WHO does not recommend imposing travel or trade restrictions related to yellow fever in South America.

Yellow fever is an acute viral disease transmitted by infected mosquitoes. Around 90% of cases occur in sub-Saharan Africa. The illness can cause a sudden high fever, liver and kidney damage, and bleeding.

By Khagan Isayev