A Peruvian traveler was denied departure from Juan Santamaría International Airport upon his arrival in Costa Rica due to the absence of a yellow fever vaccination. Health Minister Mary Munive provided clarification on the policy as confusion surrounding the issue increased.

The regulation is designed to safeguard Costa Rica, a tropical country free of yellow fever, from potential imported cases.

In a related incident, a Paraguayan citizen over the age of 60 who arrived to attend San José’s annual book fair was turned away at the counter for not having a vaccination certificate.

Costa Rica is adjusting its regulations, which are compulsory for travelers from Peru, Paraguay, Brazil, and other high-risk countries, in response to regional discrepancies.

These cases highlight a nationwide shortage of yellow fever vaccines, exacerbated by global supply chain challenges and an increase in cases across the Americas, with 14 reported in 2025 by PAHO/WHO. Both the Costa Rican Association of Travel Agencies (ACAV) and the National Chamber of Tourism (Canatur) have called on the Ministry to halt the decree until sufficient vaccine supplies are available.

On March 11, 2025, the Ministry introduced a border vaccination initiative and a digital certificate system, though a complete resolution is still unclear.

Munive emphasized the need for flexibility as Costa Rica strives to balance public health concerns with tourism. With thousands of yearly visitors from high-risk areas, effective communication and vaccine accessibility are essential to prevent additional disruptions.

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