Location: Countrywide
Event: There have been reports of an increase in the number of Malaria cases in Costa Rica. Though these cases have been reported primarily in the Caribbean province of Limon, there is an increased risk anywhere in Costa Rican, especially in coastal or low-lying zones.
Malaria is a mosquito-borne disease caused by a parasite. Severe malaria can cause serious health problems and even death. If you experience any symptoms including a fever, while traveling or after you return to the United States, see a doctor or nurse.
Actions to Take:
· Visit CDC’s website on Malaria.
· If you travel to an area where malaria is common, taking medicine can help keep you from getting it. If you plan to travel in Costa Rica, tell your doctor or nurse as soon as possible.
· If you are pregnant and traveling in an area with Malaria, tell your doctor or nurse as soon as possible. You may have a higher risk of getting malaria than other people, and you could get much sicker.
· Other Precautions:
o Stay inside at night – This means any time after sunset and before sunrise.
o Wear shoes, long-sleeved shirts, and long pants when you go outside.
o Wear bug spray or cream that contains DEET or a chemical called picaridin.
o Sleep in a building with good screens over the windows and doors or air conditioning. Or, you can sleep under a bed net treated with bug spray.
Assistance
· U.S. Embassy San Jose
Phone: 506-2519-2000
Acssanjose@state.gov
https://cr.usembassy.gov/
· State Department – – Consular Affairs
888-407-4747 or 202-501-4444
· Costa Rican Ministry of Health
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