Spring break destinations with elevated mosquito risks

Before you book that spring getaway

Dreaming of warm beaches and sunny skies for spring break 2026? You are not alone. Millions of Americans head south each year to shake off winter and soak up the sun.

But this year, health experts are warning travelers to pay close attention to mosquito-borne diseases. In parts of Latin America and the Caribbean, outbreaks are still active as the busy travel season begins.

Before you pack flip-flops and sunscreen, it helps to know which destinations carry higher health risks and how to protect yourself and your family.

Why mosquitoes are a bigger concern in 2026

Mosquitoes may seem like a small annoyance, but they can carry serious illnesses. Viruses such as dengue, chikungunya, yellow fever, and Zika are transmitted by mosquitoes in tropical and subtropical areas. Oropouche virus is mainly spread by biting midges, with some evidence of mosquito transmission as well.

PAHO reports ongoing outbreaks of mosquito- and midge-borne diseases across parts of the Americas in early 2026. Some diseases are declining, but others remain active in key travel destinations.

As spring and summer travel picks up, warm weather plus heavier tourism can increase exposure risk for U.S. visitors.

Brazil tops the high-risk list

Brazil is currently one of the highest-risk destinations for mosquito-borne diseases, with the largest recorded dengue burden in the Americas and major chikungunya activity in recent seasons.

Risk is not uniform across the country. States such as São Paulo and areas of the Amazon basin have seen repeated dengue and chikungunya transmission, while malaria is mainly confined to forested and rural zones rather than big cities.

Recent tourism data show that roughly 700,000 U.S. residents visit Brazil each year, increasing the likelihood that American travelers could encounter these diseases during popular vacation periods.

Colombia faces multiple outbreaks

Colombia is another destination facing ongoing health challenges. The country reports high activity for chikungunya and dengue, along with malaria and yellow fever in certain regions.

Health data show that Colombia accounts for a large share of malaria cases in the Americas. Areas near the Amazon and some coastal regions pose higher risks than major cities.

Tourists visiting nature reserves, rainforests, or rural zones should take extra precautions. Checking travel health notices before departure can help families plan wisely.

Mexico’s hidden seasonal spikes

Mexico remains one of the top vacation choices for Americans, drawing tens of millions of U.S. visitors each year. Beach resorts and historic cities make it a favorite for families and college students alike.

In recent years, Mexico has recorded hundreds of thousands of dengue cases annually, with seasonal spikes often hitting warm coastal states where mosquitoes thrive.

Popular resort cities such as Cancún and Puerto Vallarta can experience increased transmission during peak travel months, so travelers should stay alert to health advisories and mosquito precautions.

Chikungunya still spreading fast

While dengue reports in early 2026 are lower than at the same time in 2025, chikungunya remains highly active in parts of the Americas. More than 100,000 suspected cases have been reported between late 2025 and the first weeks of 2026.

Chikungunya can cause fever and severe joint pain that may last for weeks or even months. There is no specific antiviral treatment, so prevention is critical.

Recent alerts highlight elevated chikungunya activity in countries such as Brazil, Colombia, Mexico, Peru, Cuba, Nicaragua, and Suriname. Travelers heading to these destinations should monitor up-to-date health notices and use robust mosquito protection.

Dengue numbers drop but risk remains

There is some good news. In the first weeks of 2026, suspected dengue cases in the Americas are about 60% lower than during the same period in 2025, which followed a record dengue year.

Even so, more than 100,000 suspected cases have already been recorded this year. Dengue spreads quickly in crowded cities and warm, humid areas where mosquitoes breed in standing water.

Lower numbers do not mean the virus has disappeared. Travelers should not assume a dip in early-season case counts means the danger is gone.

Little-known fact: Only female mosquitoes bite people because they need blood proteins to produce eggs.

Yellow fever rules you should know

Yellow fever remains a serious concern in parts of South America. Some countries require proof of vaccination for entry, especially if you are traveling from or through affected areas.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention advises vaccination for certain regions in Brazil, Colombia, Peru, and Venezuela. Requirements can vary by location and travel route.

Yellow fever vaccination is usually given as a single shot and provides long-lasting protection. Checking entry rules before booking flights can prevent last-minute stress at the airport.

Malaria risk in the Amazon

Malaria is not widespread in big tourist cities, but it remains a risk in rural and jungle regions, especially in the Amazon basin.

Parts of Brazil, Colombia, and Peru report ongoing malaria transmission. Travelers planning eco-tours, river cruises, or extended stays in forested areas face higher exposure.

Malaria vaccines currently exist but have been rolled out mainly in African countries and are not widely available through routine programs in most of the Americas. For travelers, preventive medications and mosquito-control measures remain the primary tools for protection.

New and emerging virus threats

Beyond the more familiar names, health officials are tracking Oropouche fever, an emerging arbovirus circulating in parts of Brazil and nearby countries, spread mainly by biting midges and, in some settings, mosquitoes.

There is currently no approved vaccine for either Oropouche or Zika, so personal protection against insect bites is a major way to reduce risk.

As viruses evolve and spread to new regions, travel health guidance can change quickly. Checking official health sources before you book or fly helps travelers make informed choices.

Vaccines travelers can consider

Vaccines offer an important layer of protection for some mosquito-borne diseases. For example, the chikungunya vaccine VIMKUNYA is a single-dose option now available in several countries for people 12 and older who are at risk of exposure, including some travelers to outbreak areas.

Dengue vaccines such as Qdenga and Dengvaxia are licensed in certain endemic countries. Qdenga has been introduced into selected national and regional programs, including parts of Brazil, while Dengvaxia is used in more limited situations for people with documented past dengue infection.

Always talk with a doctor or travel health clinic before getting any vaccine. A medical professional can help you decide which, if any, vaccines are appropriate for your itinerary and health history.

Simple ways to avoid mosquito bites

Vaccines are helpful, but daily habits matter just as much. Wearing long sleeves and pants, especially at dawn and dusk, can reduce the amount of exposed skin.

Use insect repellent containing EPA-approved ingredients such as DEET or picaridin. Reapply as directed, especially after swimming or sweating in hot weather.

Choose accommodations with air conditioning or window screens when possible. Consistently taking small steps can greatly reduce your risk of mosquito bites during your trip.

Discover the best viewing locations and tips for seeing wildlife during the September rut season.

Check updates before you fly

Health risks can shift quickly from month to month. Case counts, vaccine guidance, and entry rules may change as outbreaks rise or fall.

Before finalizing your travel plans, review current notices from trusted public health agencies. A quick check could help you adjust your itinerary or schedule a vaccine appointment in time.

Explore top bikepacking routes perfect for enjoying cooler, comfortable shoulder-season rides.

If this guide helped you think twice about your spring break plans, share it with friends and family, and let us know where you are headed in 2026.

This slideshow was made with AI assistance and human editing.

Read More From This Brand:

• Tribal leader calls out decades of deception at famed Michigan spring
• Record snow drought in the western U.S. raises concern for spring water shortages and wildfires
• The Florida spring where Tarzan swam with elephants is now a state park you can visit