Key points
- There is currently an outbreak of Plasmodium falciparum malaria in the province of Limón, Costa Rica. There is also malaria transmission in Alajuela Province.
- Malaria can be prevented by avoiding mosquito bites and taking a prescription antimalarial drug.
- If you are traveling to Limón or Alajuela Province, you should speak to your healthcare professional about how to prevent mosquito bites and which antimalarial drug is best for you. You should start taking antimalarial drugs prior to travel.
- Seek medical care if you develop fever, chills, sweats, headache, vomiting, or body aches. Malaria is a medical emergency, and appropriate treatment should not be delayed.
- The Costa Rican Ministry of HealthExternal Link is conducting investigations and asking residents to take mosquito avoidance measures.
Traveler Information
- Travelers’ Health Malaria Website
- Health Information for Travelers to Costa Rica
- CDC Malaria Website
- CDC Malaria Outbreak Notice
- Prevent Mosquito Bites
Clinician Information
- Clinical Guidance
- Malaria in the CDC Yellow Book (Health Information for International Travel)
- Yellow Fever & Malaria Information, by Country (Costa Rica)
- Malaria Risk Assessment for Travelers