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Chikungunya is a viral disease transmitted to humans through the bites of infected Aedes aegypti and Aedes albopictus mosquitoes. / Photos courtesy of the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).

U.S. Embassy Issues Health Alert Following Chikungunya Outbreak In Costa Rica

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Published on Wednesday, July 22, 2026

By the A.M. Costa Rica staff

The U.S. Embassy in Costa Rica has issued a health alert following a chikungunya outbreak centered in Guanacaste Province, particularly in the Langosta Beach area.

According to the Ministry of Health, chikungunya is a viral disease transmitted to humans through the bites of infected Aedes aegypti and Aedes albopictus mosquitoes.

The most common symptoms are fever and joint pain, which typically develop four to eight days after a mosquito bite. Other symptoms may include headache, muscle pain, joint swelling and a rash. While most people recover within a week, joint pain can persist for months in some cases.

The embassy's alert follows the Ministry's updated epidemiological report confirming an active outbreak in Langosta Beach, which was first detected in early July.

Health authorities reported that 45 suspected cases have been investigated in the Langosta Beach area, involving both Costa Rican residents and foreign visitors.

Laboratory analysis conducted by the Institute for Research in Nutrition and Health (INCIENSA) confirmed four cases of chikungunya, while 17 additional cases were classified as probable infections.

"Local transmission means the virus is now circulating in the local mosquito population in that area, not just arriving via travelers," the embassy said in its statement. "Langosta Beach and the surrounding Guanacaste Coast are common destinations for U.S. citizens."

The embassy did not advise Americans to avoid traveling to Langosta Beach. Instead, it encouraged U.S. citizens to take additional health precautions to reduce the risk of mosquito bites and infection.

Costa Rican health authorities said a mosquito-control campaign is underway in Langosta and surrounding communities. As part of the effort, specialized crews have fumigated approximately 5,000 homes using thermal foggers and high-powered LECO-type machines. More than 600 properties have also been inspected and cleaned to eliminate mosquito breeding sites where adult mosquitoes and larvae were found.

According to the health officials' latest epidemiological report, 21 chikungunya cases have been identified nationwide so far this year. Cases have been reported in nearly every province except Cartago.

The ministry said the most effective way to prevent chikungunya is to avoid mosquito bites and reduce mosquito breeding habitats.

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Recommended precautions include eliminating standing water where mosquitoes lay eggs, using insect repellent, wearing loose-fitting clothing that covers the arms and legs, and using mosquito nets as well as window and door screens.

Authorities also advise anyone experiencing symptoms consistent with chikungunya to seek medical attention promptly.

The Embassy encourages American citizens in Costa Rica to visit the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) website for additional information about chikungunya and preventive measures.

In case of an emergency, U.S. citizens may contact the U.S. Embassy in Costa Rica at +506-2519-2000. They may also contact the U.S. Department of State's Office of Overseas Citizens Services at +1-888-407-4747 (within the United States and Canada) or +1-202-501-4444 (from overseas), or email ACSSanJose@state.gov.

The Ministry of Public Health oversees both public and private health care systems and is responsible for implementing and enforcing health regulations.

A.M. Costa Rica encouraged readers to share the health advisory within their communities.

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Have you heard of any expats who contracted chikungunya while traveling or living in Costa Rica? We would like to know your thoughts on this story. Send your comments to news@amcostarica.com