Costa Rica he wild paradise of Costa Rica offers travelers Nature in all its splendor! Lush jungles, lunar-like volcanic craters, mangrove forests, stunning mountain peaks, mighty waterfalls, paradise deserted beaches, tropical islands… The Central American country displays an amazing array of landscapes, home to an astonishing biodiversity. With its stunning hikes, world-class surf spots and amazing diving sites, Costa Rica is a haven for adventurers. The natural beauty of the country is only equaled by the kindness of its multicultural population. Costa Rica is an overly peaceful nation, where the local expression “Pura Vida” (the Pure Life) takes on its full meaning.
HEALTH INFORMATION
Risk of Zika in this Country. Learn More >>
We make every effort to ensure that the information posted on our website is up to date and accurate according to the latest public health recommendations; however, it is impossible for us to make changes on a daily basis.
For the most current travel health recommendations, please call our clinic as make an appointment with one of our travel health professionals.
COSTA RICA – RECOMMENDED VACCINES
| The Yellow Fever Vaccine |
A proof of vaccination against yellow fever may be required upon entry in to this country. Some travellers may not be eligible to receive this vaccine. Please enquire with your health care professional regarding your specific details. For further information, please consult with the World Health Organization (WHO) website: |
| Hepatitis A | Recommended for all travelers. |
| Tetanus – Diphteria – Pertussis Vaccine | Tetanus: In exceptional circumstances (eg, stay in a region where access to health care is limited), for a person aged 18 years or older, 1 dose of DT may be given if 5 years or more has elapsed since the last dose. Otherwise, one booster dose at the age of 50*. Pertussis (Whooping Cough): 1 dose is recommended for pregnant women, for every pregnancy, regardless of immunization history and the interval since the last dose (betwen week 26 and 32). *Only applicable for Quebec. |
| Measles – Rubella – Mumps | Two doses recommended for all travelers born after 1970, if not previously given. |
| Cholera | For humanitarian workers and health care providers. |
| Flu – Influenza | Seasonal influenza occurs worldwide. The flu season usually runs from November to April in the northern hemisphere, between April and October in the southern hemisphere and year round in the tropics. Influenza (flu) is caused by a virus spread from person to person through coughing and sneezing or by touching infected surfaces. Everyone 6 months and older should get a flu vaccine yearly. Vaccine is recommended 14 days prior to departure. |
| Routine vaccines (dCaT, Polio, Meningococcal, Shingles, Pneumococcal, Hepatitis B, HPV, MMR & Varicella) | Recommended for all travelers |
| Causes, Symptoms & Treatment – Typhoid fever | Recommended for most travelers, especially those who are staying with friends or relatives; visiting smaller cities, villages, or rural areas where exposure might occur through food or water; or prone to “adventurous eating” |
| Hepatitis B | Consider for most travelers; recommended for those who might be exposed to blood or other body fluids, have sexual contact with the local population, or be exposed through medical treatment (e.g., for an accident). |
| African Tick Bite Fever | Could be present. All travellers should protect themselves against tick bites. |
| Transmission, Symptoms and Prevention – Rabies | For travelers at high risk of animal bites or being involved in activities with bats, dogs and other mammals. Clients who plan to visit remote areas may consider receiving this vaccine. Important to note the pre-exposure rabies vaccine is administered in 2 doses with one week interval between doses. Post-exposure vaccination is always recommended, even for those previously vaccinated. |
| Chagas Disease | Presence. All travelers should protect themselves against triatomine bugs. |
| Turista – Traveler’s Diarrhea (ETEC) | Talk to your health care professional about the risks and precautionary measures to take, as well as the Dukoral® vaccine. Important to note that the Dukoral vaccine is an oral vaccine given in 2 doses, recommended at least 2 weeks prior to departure. |
| Dengue Fever, Chikungunya and/or Zika |
There are many illnesses that are transmitted via mosquito bites and unfortunately we do not have vaccines to protect us against most of them. It is important to inquire with your healthcare professional regarding the specific risks and the different illnesses presently in circulation. …… |
RECOMMENDED MEDICATIONS
| Antibiotics Traveler’s Diarrhea | Ciprofloxacin, Azithromycin or Suprax. |
| Acetazolamide/Dexaméthasone | Recommended if trekking at Chirripo Grande (3820 m.). |
MEDICAL CARE
In Costa Rica, some very well equipped private hospitals can be found in San Jose, the capital city. The Clinica Biblica Hospital and the Cima Hospital are two of them. These medical establishments offer health care of good quality. They have emergency services accessible 24 hours a day, as well as intensive care units, surgical departments, maternity services, medical imaging equipment, and pharmaceutical services. Most of the doctors working in Costa Rica take in charge American health insurance schemes. Outside of the capital city, access to quality health care can be limited.
In case of emergency, call 911. You can also contact the Red Cross ambulance service at 128 or 221-5818. They are usually fast and efficient.
Local pharmacies, such as Fischel, are well stocked and sell quality pharmaceutical products. Most of the drugs used in the United States are available in the country. But it is always safer to bring your own medical kit.
SECURITY ABROAD
The rate of drug-related violent crimes, including homicides, is on the rise in Costa Rica. Drug trafficking is common. Local drug use, including crack, is a major concern.
CANADIAN EMBASSY
Emergency services
Dial 911 for emergency assistance.
