Malaria in Costa Rica: Province of Limon

Media in Costa Rica have reported an outbreak of malaria in the province of Limon. According to public health authorities there have been 62 cases in the 2 weeks leading up to 7 April 2023 in the cantons of Limon and Pococo. These areas usually have a lower risk of malaria.

Advice for Travellers

While higher than expected cases of malaria continue to be reported, travellers to the province of Limon should:

• be made aware of the risk of malaria, given the current increase in cases
• practise strict mosquito bite avoidance at all times the mainstay of malaria prevention
• consider antimalarial chemoprophylaxis if they are in groups at higher risk from malaria

Travellers returning from malarious areas should seek prompt medical advice if they develop a fever during travel or on their return, ensuring they highlight their potential exposure to malaria.

See the TRAVAX Malaria section and Costa Rica country page for further information.