CDC advises enhanced precautions for travel to Colombia over yellow fever rise
The US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has issued a Level 2 travel notice for Colombia, citing an increased number of reported yellow fever cases.
The US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has issued a Level 2 travel notice for Colombia, advising travellers to practice enhanced precautions. The advisory was released on 18 September 2026, following reports of an increased number of yellow fever cases within the country.
Under the CDC’s travel health notice system, a Level 2 designation specifically corresponds to “Practice Enhanced Precautions.” This classification sits below the highest level of warning, which advises travellers to avoid non-essential travel, but signals that specific health risks are present and require attention from those visiting the region.
The primary reason cited for the advisory is the rise in reported yellow fever cases. While the notice confirms an increase, it does not specify the exact number of new infections or identify the specific geographic regions within Colombia currently affected by the outbreak.
This health development occurs alongside a separate but significant crisis in the country. Colombia is currently managing the aftermath of its largest earthquake in years, which resulted in at least 132 reported deaths. The seismic event has prompted President Abelardo de la Espriella to declare a three-day national mourning period and an economic emergency.
Rescue operations related to the earthquake have entered their final phase as the critical 72-hour window for finding survivors beneath collapsed buildings closes. Although the yellow fever advisory and the earthquake response are distinct events, they are occurring simultaneously, potentially complicating the situation for both residents and international visitors.
Travellers to Colombia are encouraged to review the latest CDC guidance and consult with healthcare providers regarding vaccination and other preventive measures. The advisory remains focused on the specific risk of yellow fever transmission rather than the broader infrastructure challenges posed by the recent seismic activity.