As Peru continues to monitor a rise in yellow fever cases-with 61 confirmed infections and 30 deaths reported in 2024 alone [[2]]-the Ministry of Health is urging residents and travelers to prioritize vaccination and preventative measures. The advisory comes as several regions throughout the country present ongoing risk of transmission, notably in rural areas. Travelers should be aware that while the city of Cusco and Machu Picchu are currently considered low-risk, vaccination is strongly recommended for those venturing into surrounding endemic zones.
medecinedesvoyages.net
Patrick GEROME, le 11/01/2026
The Peruvian Ministry of Health is advising both residents and international travelers to ensure they are vaccinated against yellow fever and to take preventative measures to avoid infection. This guidance comes as the country continues to monitor and address the risk of this potentially serious viral disease.
Currently, the risk of yellow fever is concentrated in rural areas across several Peruvian regions, including Amazonas, San MartÃn, JunÃn, Ayacucho, Cusco (with the exception of the city of Cusco, Machu Picchu, and the Inca Trail), Loreto, Madre de Dios, Huánuco, Pasco, Puno, and Ucayali. Understanding the geographic distribution of risk is crucial for travelers planning trips to these areas.
Health officials strongly recommend vaccination at least 10 days before traveling to these endemic zones. The yellow fever vaccine is freely available throughout Peru and is considered safe and effective, providing lifelong protection with a single dose. For entry into Peru, the Ministry of Health highly recommends travelers be vaccinated beforehand, as proof of vaccination may be required in certain rural areas of humid rainforest where the disease is present.
When visiting at-risk areas, it’s important to enhance preventative measures. This includes using insect repellent containing 15 to 25 percent DEET, wearing light-colored clothing that covers most of the body, and utilizing mosquito nets while sleeping. These steps can significantly reduce the risk of mosquito bites, the primary mode of transmission for yellow fever.
Upon returning from travel to these regions, individuals are advised to monitor their health for at least seven days. Anyone experiencing symptoms such as fever, general malaise, or headache should seek immediate medical attention. Early diagnosis and treatment are vital for managing the illness and preventing complications.
Source : VaxBeforeTravel (Gobierno de Perú. Ministerio de Salud)
Zones Associées: Pérou
