A Peruvian tourist was denied exit in Costa Rica due to lack of a yellow fever vaccine. A Paraguayan visitor faced a similar situation. These instances highlight a vaccine shortage worsened by global disruptions, leading to appeals to suspend the decree until doses become available. Costa Rica initiated a vaccination campaign but the resolution of the shortage is still uncertain.
A Peruvian tourist was denied exit at Juan Santamaría International Airport in Costa Rica due to the absence of a yellow fever vaccination. Health Minister Mary Munive explained that while transit passengers are exempt from vaccination if they remain in the airport, those who wish to leave for any reason must be vaccinated. The traveler was informed, “Comply or stay,” and opted to stay instead of proceeding to his planned day trip.
A similar situation occurred for a Paraguayan citizen over 60, denied entry to attend San José’s annual book fair due to not possessing a vaccination certificate. Minister Munive remarked that many seniors in South America are often exempt from vaccination requirements and do not receive certificates, complicating their travel plans. Costa Rica is currently refining its vaccination rules for travelers from high-risk nations like Peru and Paraguay.
These incidents highlight a significant shortage of yellow fever vaccines, exacerbated by global supply chain issues and rising health concerns in the region, with 14 cases reported in the Americas in 2025 by PAHO/WHO. Both the Costa Rican Association of Travel Agencies (ACAV) and Canatur have urged the government to pause the vaccination decree until sufficient vaccine doses become available. Canatur representative Shirley Calvo warned, “The shortage makes compliance impossible, threatening travelers and our $4 billion tourism industry.”
In response, the Ministry of Health initiated a border vaccination campaign and a digital certificate system on March 11, 2025. However, it remains uncertain when the full resolution of the vaccine shortage will occur. Minister Munive emphasized the need for balance between public health and tourism, noting that effective communication and access to vaccines are essential to prevent further disruptions for the thousands of visitors arriving from at-risk areas.
The denial of exit for the Peruvian and Paraguayan tourists illustrates the stringent yellow fever vaccination requirements in Costa Rica. The current vaccine shortage, along with ongoing supply chain issues, poses challenges for both travelers and the tourism sector. With adjustments planned in policy and efforts underway to improve vaccine access, Costa Rica seeks to maintain its public health safeguards while supporting the vital tourism industry.
Original Source: ticotimes.net
