Health for a Cali getaway: dengue, water, vaccines and safer sex

Before a getaway to Cali it is worth spending ten minutes on health. This guide summarises the US CDC and UK FCDO pages and does not replace a consultation with a health professional or an international vaccination centre.

Vaccines and risks

The CDC asks you to check routine vaccines, recommends hepatitis A for the unvaccinated and hepatitis B for unvaccinated people under 60, and asks everyone to be up to date with measles (MMR). On yellow fever, it says vaccination is generally not recommended for trips limited to Cali, although the advice varies by itinerary, so check your whole route. The FCDO asks you to check recommendations at least eight weeks before travel.

Mosquitoes

Dengue is a year-round risk in many areas of Colombia, and Zika and chikungunya are also listed. The main measure is avoiding bites: repellent, light long sleeves at dusk and protected accommodation. The CDC also notes malaria risk below 1,700 metres in the country; if your route leaves the city, ask which prophylaxis applies. Any fever during the trip or up to a year afterwards needs medical attention.

Water, food and insurance

The FCDO says tap water is safe only in Bogotá; elsewhere drink bottled water and avoid ice in drinks. Confirm your insurance covers local treatment and repatriation. Private clinics in large cities offer good care, and the emergency number is 123.

Sexual health

The CDC recommends mpox vaccination for adults with new sexual partners or attending large events, and its general advice is to use latex condoms correctly and limit alcohol. If you frequent lifestyle settings, test regularly, agree condom use with every partner and do not share toys without cleaning them. This is general information, not medical advice.