July 23, 2019
Location: San Jose, Costa Rica
Event: The U.S. Embassy in Costa Rica is aware of the reports regarding recent deaths in Costa Rica associated with the consumption of tainted alcohol. At this time, we are not aware of any U.S. citizen illness or death due to consuming adulterated alcohol in Costa Rica. The deaths have reportedly occurred throughout the country including seven cases in San Jose, four cases in Cartago, one case in Heredia, three cases in the Limón area and two cases in Guanacaste. Out of an abundance of caution, the Government of Costa Rica has issued a national alert and confiscated 30,000 bottles of alcohol from six brands: Guaro Montano, Guaro Gran Apache, Star Welsh, Aguardiente Barón Rojo, Aguardiente Timbuka, and Aguardiente Molotov. Please see below a link to the Costa Rican Ministry of Health Warning.
- Costa Rican Ministry of Health Warning (Spanish only)
Actions to Take: The Embassy strongly recommends all persons avoid consuming alcohol from these brands. The Government of Costa Rica is investigating the situation and the Embassy remains in contact Costa Rica authorities regarding the ongoing investigation
Assistance: U.S. Embassy San Jose, Costa Rica
+506 2519 2000 (after hours as well)
ACSSanJose@state.gov
State Department – Consular Affairs 888-407-4747 or 202-501-4444
Enroll in Safe Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) to receive security updates https://step.state.gov/step/
