Malaria in Costa Rica (Zona Norte)

Public health authorities in Costa Rica report (in Spanish) an ongoing outbreak of malaria in the Zona Norte region of the country, near the border with Nicaragua. Malaria is usually uncommon in this region but an increase in cases has been reported since September 2021.

During November 2021, there were 138 cases of malaria in the region affecting the communities of Medio Queso, San Gerardo, Cuatro Esquinas, Isla Chica, La Trocha, Las Delicias and Coquita.

Advice for Travellers

While higher than expected cases of malaria continue to be reported, travellers to this area should:

• be made aware of the risk of malaria, given the current increase in cases
• practise strict mosquito bite avoidance, 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 for further information.