News

This space presents a selection of public health news and updates from Colombia and around the world, gathered from official sources and other media, with the aim of facilitating timely access to relevant information on the national health context

About Diphtheria: A Disease That Refuses to Disappear

Woman covers mouth sneezing in office setting, illustrating common cold symptoms.

Source: Pexels

Publication date: 15/06/2026

Diphtheria is an acute infectious disease caused by the bacterium Corynebacterium diphtheriae. It primarily affects the upper respiratory tract, although it can also involve the skin. Its main characteristic is the formation of a grayish membrane in the throat that can make breathing difficult. In addition, the bacterium produces a toxin capable of affecting organs such as the heart and the nervous system, leading to severe complications and even death if timely treatment is not provided.

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About Tusi and Necrosis in the Lower Limbs

Dramatic depiction of potential drug use with spoon and cigarette in moody lighting.

Source: Pexels

Publication date: 27/05/2026

In recent months, different health institutions in Colombia have warned about serious complications associated with the use of “tusi” or “pink cocaine.” A report published by a news outlet described cases of people treated in Medellín with severe ischemia and necrosis of the extremities, some of whom required amputations. The phenomenon has drawn the attention of physicians and toxicologists due to the unpredictable mixture of substances this drug may contain and the extreme cardiovascular risks it can produce.

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Regarding attacks by Africanized bees in Colombia

Detailed macro shot of a honey bee on a wooden surface, showcasing its intricate features.

Source: Pexels

Publication date: 07/04/2026

In recent days, several cases of accidents involving Africanized bees have been reported in different regions of Colombia. These events occur when swarms of bees react defensively to a perceived threat, resulting in attacks that may affect one or multiple individuals.

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On the occasion of the start of dengue vaccination in Colombia

Close-up of sterile disposable syringes on a vibrant yellow surface.

Source: Pexels

Publication date: 23/02/2026

The Ministry of Health and Social Protection (MSPS) announced the start of the phased introduction of the dengue vaccine within the national immunization schedule, aiming to reduce dengue-related morbidity and mortality in the country.

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Regarding the floods in Córdoba, Colombia: What diseases can arise during floods?

A flooded road with a submerged bridge, surrounded by trees, under a cloudy sky.

Source: IA – Gemini

Publication date: 22/02/2026

Recent heavy rains and the overflow of rivers and streams have caused flooding in several municipalities of the department of Córdoba, affecting homes, roads, and water supply systems. In response to this situation, health authorities are urging the community to strengthen preventive measures, as certain infectious diseases may increase after this type of emergency.

But what diseases can appear after a flood? How are they transmitted? And what should we do to prevent them? Here we explain it in a simple way.

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New Tool to Measure Health Inequalities

Source: IA – Gemini

Publication date: 17/02/2026

Health inequalities refer to unjust and avoidable differences in the health status of populations. Beyond biological variations, these gaps reflect structural conditions that unevenly distribute resources, exposure to risks, and the capacity of health systems to respond. That’s why PAHO created a new tool to assess these inequalities.

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Regarding some dengue cases in Valledupar, Cesar, Colombia.

Source: IA – Gemini

Publication date: 13/02/2026

The Municipal Health Secretariat of Valledupar confirmed approximately 305 dengue cases up to epidemiological week 04 of 2026. In response to this situation, the health authority urges the population that, if experiencing fever (temperature above 38.5 °C), joint pain, headache, or nausea, they should not self-medicate and should promptly seek medical care.

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Regarding reported cases of leprosy in Norte de Santander, Colombia

Source: https://www.paho.org/sites/default/files/styles/flexslider_full/public/2025-01/enfermedades-tropicales-desatendidas1.jpg?h=3b268d9a&itok=NkSCriX3

Publication date: 09/02/2026

During 2025, 13 cases of leprosy have been confirmed in the department of Norte de Santander, Colombia, according to information from the Health Secretariat of Cúcuta, the department’s capital. The cases have occurred across different age groups. The health authority reassured the population while also urging people to seek timely medical care if they experience symptoms compatible with the disease

But have you ever wondered what leprosy, or Hansen’s disease, is? Here we explain it in a clear and simple way.

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About human cases of the screwworm in Mexico

Source: minsa.gob.pa/sites/default/files/normatividad/resolucion_1151_de_12_agosto_de_2025_-_aprueba_guia_de_abordaje_miasis_sistema_de_salud_del_pais.pdf

Publication date: 06/02/2026

Over the past 10 months, Mexico has reported 135 human cases of screw worm myiasis, according to figures from the National Epidemiological Surveillance System (SINAVE), as of January 30, 2026. These cases correspond to the period since the registration of human myiasis began in April of last year. So far, no deaths associated with this disease have been reported

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About the first case of monkeypox in Barrancabermeja, Santander

Source: Monkeypox: a re-emergent virus with global health implications – a comprehensive review | Tropical Diseases, Travel Medicine and Vaccines | Springer Nature Link

Publication date: 02/02/2026

Today, the first case of monkeypox in Barrancabermeja, Santander, was confirmed in a middle-aged man. The information was verified by the municipal Health Secretary and the National Institute of Health (INS). The patient is in isolation, and health authorities are urging the public to remain calm and to seek timely medical attention if symptoms compatible with the disease appear

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About yellow fever in Colombia

Source: Chatgpt

Publication date: 30/01/2026

According to the Ministry of Health and Social Protection (MSPS), Colombia has been experiencing a yellow fever outbreak since 2024, with a total of 68 human deaths recorded as of January 2026

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