Health Alert: U.S. Embassy Lima
Location: Loreto, Peru (Iquitos, Pucallpa, Other areas of the Peruvian Amazon)
Event: Yellow Fever outbreak in Peruvian Amazon
Peruvian authorities released an epidemiological alert due to a sharp rise in yellow fever cases in areas of the Peruvian Amazon, including the districts of Huanuco, San Martin, and Amazonas. As of April 1, 2025, there have been more yellow fever cases reported this year in Peru than in all of 2024. In the first twelve weeks of 2025, Peru has 29 confirmed cases of yellow fever, with 10 deaths. In comparison, Peru reported 19 confirmed cases of yellow fever with 9 deaths for all of 2024.
Yellow fever virus is spread through the bite of an infected mosquito. The best way to prevent yellow fever is to avoid mosquito bites and get vaccinated against yellow fever when traveling to an area with known transmission. The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommends vaccination for all travelers going to areas with a risk for yellow fever transmission. In addition, preventing mosquito bites prevents both yellow fever and other diseases (e.g., Dengue). There is no specific treatment or cure for yellow fever.
Initial symptoms of yellow fever can include fever, chills, severe headache, back pain, general body aches, nausea, vomiting, fatigue (feeling tired), and weakness. Severe symptoms include high fever, yellow skin or eyes (jaundice), bleeding, shock, and organ failure. If you think you or a family member might have yellow fever, see a doctor or talk with a healthcare provider.
Visit the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) webpage and Peru’s Ministry of Health webpage for more information regarding yellow fever and areas with risk of transmission.
Actions to Take
- Ensure you are vaccinated against yellow fever before traveling to areas with risk of transmission.
- Follow CDC guidance and take steps to prevent bug bites as much as possible.
- Pregnant travelers should discuss potential risks and travel plans with their healthcare provider.
- Review the CDC webpage on preventing yellow fever.
- Seek medical treatment if you are experiencing symptoms of yellow fever. While the U.S. Embassy cannot advocate for medical practitioners, a list of local doctors may be found on our website: https://pe.usembassy.gov/medical-assistance/.
For Assistance:
U.S. Embassy Lima, Peru
Avenida La Encalada cdra. 17 s/n
Santiago de Surco 15023, Lima
+51-1-618-2000
