Costa Rica - Health

Costa Rica offers some of the top healthcare services in all of Latin America. While San Jose's medical facilities often provide adequate treatment, other locations may offer more limited services. Basic medical supplies might not be available in remote areas. Ambulance services are widely available but may lack emergency equipment. Most hospitals and medical professionals require cash payment prior to service or admission. Many doctors, especially in private practice, speak English and have received training abroad.

There are three large, private hospitals that are affordable and high quality in and around the capital of the country, San Jose: CIMA Hospital in Escazu, Clinica Biblica in San Jose, and Hospital La Catolica in San Jose-Guadalupe.

Dentists in Costa Rica charge far less than dentists anyplace else while being just as competent and knowledgeable.

Vaccine-Preventable Diseases:

Make sure you are up-to-date on all routine vaccines before your trip.

Hepatitis A and B as well as Typhoid vaccinations are advised.

In Limón province, a malaria outbreak has been reported. Additionally, the province of Alajuela has malaria transmission.

Visitors are advised by the CDC to take a prescription malaria preventative before visiting specific Costa Rican regions.

Yellow Fever vaccination is required if coming from certain countries in South America or Africa with a risk of YF virus transmission. You can travel to Costa Rica ten days after the shot.

Visit the CDC website and the Costa Rican Ministry of Health website for more details.

Food and Water Concerns:

The tap water in Costa Rica is safe to drink. The country has a well-developed water treatment infrastructure, and the water quality is closely monitored by the government. However, bottled water is recommended especially in rural areas around the coast.

Mosquito-borne Diseases:

There is a risk of mosquito-borne diseases such as Dengue fever and Chikungunya virus in Costa Rica. A high number of dengue cases have been reported in Huetar Caribe region followed by Central Pacific and Central North, while cases of Zika virus were also recorded in June of 2023.

Prevention:

• Use a repellent containing 20%-30% DEET or 20% Picaridin on exposed skin.
• Re-apply according to the manufacturer's directions.
• Wear neutral-colored (beige, light grey) long-sleeved clothing.
• Pre-soak or spray the outer layer of clothing and gear with permethrin.
• Ensure that the hatch and window screens work properly.

Other Diseases:

Rabid dogs are commonly found in Costa Rica. Rabies vaccination is advised.

Rabies treatment is available if you are bitten or scratched by a dog or other mammal while in Costa Rica.

Prescription Drugs:

Most prescription and over-the-counter medications are available. Bring a supply of your medications and carry prescription medication in original packaging along with your doctor’s prescription. To make sure the medication is acceptable in Costa Rica, check with the country's Ministry of Health.

Emergency Numbers:
See Emergencies.

Dial 911 for immediate assistance.

Last updated:  July 2023