YELLOW FEVER VACCINE ALERT

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Travel safely by protecting your health

Yellow fever has raised new alerts in Colombia and across Latin America. This virus, transmitted by mosquitoes in tropical areas, can be severe or even deadly. So far in 2025, 100 confirmed cases have been reported in Colombia, with 44 deaths in departments like Tolima, Huila, Meta, and Putumayo.

Due to this, the Ministry of Health has reinforced preventive measures for ground travelers, especially those traveling by bus to high-risk areas.

When planning your trip on redBus.co, check if your destination requires proof of yellow fever vaccination.

yellow fever alert

What is yellow fever?

It’s an acute viral illness transmitted by the bite of infected mosquitoes. It may begin with mild fever, but in severe cases, it can lead to liver damage, jaundice, bleeding, and even death.

Common symptoms

High fever
Muscle pain (especially in the back)
Headache
Nausea and vomiting
Jaundice (yellowing of skin and eyes)
Bleeding (in severe cases)
Extreme fatigue

There is no specific treatment. Vaccination is the most effective prevention.

Who should get vaccinated?

All travelers (locals and foreigners) heading to risk areas in Colombia
People traveling to yellow fever endemic countries like Brazil or Peru
Children starting at 18 months (or from 12 months in high-exposure zones)

Just one dose provides lifetime protection.

What happens if you’re not vaccinated?

If you’re traveling by bus to a risk area and don’t have proof of vaccination, you may:

Be unable to purchase your ticket if you lack a certificate or sworn statement
Be stopped at a health checkpoint
Face fines or penalties for breaking public health regulations
Be held legally responsible for infecting others
Suffer severe complications if you contract the disease

It’s simply not worth the risk.

Where to get vaccinated for free

Visit any facility of the Expanded Immunization Program (PAI). These are available in hospitals, local health centers, and mobile units across the country.

What do you need to travel?

Before boarding a bus at terminals or purchasing tickets on platforms like redBus.co, you’ll need:

International yellow fever vaccination certificate, or
A signed sworn declaration if vaccinated without certificate
National ID or passport
Destination details (in case of inspection)

redBus Colombia provides updated info on routes, travel requirements, and health measures so you can travel confidently.

Official risk areas in Colombia

Departments:

Amazonas, Caquetá, Casanare, Cesar, Guainía, Guaviare, Guajira, Meta, Putumayo, Vaupés, and Vichada

Municipalities:

Magdalena: Santa Marta, Ciénaga, Aracataca
Norte de Santander: Convención, El Carmen, El Tarra, Teorama, Sardinata, Tibú, El Zulia, Hacarí, San Calixto
Chocó: Riosucio, Carmen del Darién, Juradó, Nuquí, Unguía
Antioquia: Dabeiba, Mutatá, Turbo, Yondó

FAQs

Is the vaccine required for all destinations?

No. It’s mandatory only for areas classified as high-risk, but highly recommended for natural and rural destinations.

Where can I get the international certificate?

At the vaccination site or an authorized entity by the Ministry of Health. Request it after getting the shot.

Is the vaccine free?

Yes. It’s available at no cost through Colombia’s PAI program.

Is the certificate valid abroad?

Yes. The international yellow fever certificate is accepted in all countries that require proof of immunization.

What if I have a medical exemption?

You must present a certified medical document justifying the exemption. Some exceptions are recognized by health authorities.

Smart travelers stay informed

Protect yourself and others. Get vaccinated early, check your destination’s health requirements, and plan your bus trip with redBus.co, where you’ll also find the latest information on checkpoints, alerts, and authorized routes.