Britons face health risks from Oropouche virus and yellow fever in Peru

Britons traveling to Peru are facing health risks due to the presence of diseases such as Oropouche virus disease and yellow fever. As of September 16, 2024, there have been 930 confirmed cases of Oropouche virus disease reported this year, while yellow fever has resulted in 38 confirmed cases and 19 deaths since January. The FCDO advises travelers to check vaccine recommendations at least eight weeks prior to their trip and to consult TravelHealthPro for essential health information. Symptoms of these diseases can manifest days after being bitten by infected mosquitoes, with yellow fever symptoms resembling flu-like conditions. Travelers are also warned about other health risks, including malaria, Zika virus, and altitude sickness. The FCDO has issued travel advisories for certain regions in Peru, particularly near the Colombia border and the VRAEM region, where essential travel is recommended only. Despite these warnings, most visits to Peru are reported to be incident-free, highlighting the importance of preparation and awareness for travelers. Britons are encouraged to stay informed about health risks and necessary vaccinations to ensure a safe trip to this popular holiday destination.