In response to a report from the Health Chamber about a shortage of yellow fever vaccines, the Ministry of Health has revoked its recent mandate requiring vaccination for individuals arriving from high-risk countries.

The vaccination order, which had been in effect since May 11, has been canceled until sufficient vaccine supplies are available to meet demand, health authorities confirmed.

As a result, both residents and visitors, nationals and foreigners, coming from designated high-risk countries are no longer required to be vaccinated upon entering Costa Rica.

Due to the current shortage of vaccines, authorities are advising residents to avoid traveling to countries with high yellow fever risk. For those with urgent travel plans to these regions, health officials recommend receiving the vaccine immediately upon arrival at the destination.

Yellow fever is a viral disease transmitted by the Aedes aegypti mosquito. Symptoms include fever, chills, nausea, muscle pain, and headaches, typically improving within five days. However, about 15% of cases experience more severe symptoms, such as abdominal pain, liver damage (leading to jaundice), and an increased risk of bleeding and kidney problems.

Countries at risk for yellow fever include several South American nations, such as Bolivia, Brazil, Colombia, Ecuador, Guyana, French Guiana, Paraguay, Peru, Suriname, Venezuela, and Trinidad and Tobago, as well as certain countries in Africa.

People with contraindications should avoid receiving the vaccine due to the risk of serious adverse effects. For those with precautions, the decision to administer the vaccine should be made collaboratively, based on the individual’s risk tolerance.

As of Tuesday, March 18, there have been no confirmed cases of yellow fever in Costa Rica, authorities added.

In January, Costa Rica held its third free yellow fever vaccination campaign.

The Ministry of Public Health is the government agency responsible for overseeing and regulating public and private healthcare in Costa Rica.

A.M. Costa Rica encourages readers to share this health advisory in their communities.

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