Objective. To analyze the sociodemographic factors associated with case fatality rates for yellow fever in Colombia between January 2024 and January 2026.
Methods. A retrospective observational analytical cohort study was conducted based on records from the national public health surveillance system (Sivigila). Probable and confirmed cases of yellow fever reported between 1 January 2024 and 31 January 2026 were included. Quantitative variables were described using the median and interquartile range, and categorical variables using absolute and relative frequencies. Cumulative survival was estimated using Kaplan-Meier curves, and factors associated with case fatality were evaluated using Cox proportional hazards models.
Results. A total of 164 cases were included, with a predominance of men and a median age of 45 years. There were 70 deaths attributable to yellow fever, with a case fatality rate of 42.7%, showing a marked geographical concentration in the department of Tolima and a higher incidence among men, older adults, and people involved in agricultural and livestock activities. Age over 60 years was associated with a higher risk of death (adjusted HR = 5.45; CI 95%: 1.13–26.2.)
Conclusions. Yellow fever had a high case-fatality rate among cases reported as probable and confirmed in Colombia, in particular among older adults. The findings support the need to strengthen vaccination strategies, epidemiological surveillance, and early detection in areas with active virus circulation.