Costa Rica: Elevated Hepatitis A activity in multiple areas, especially San Jose, through October

Event

Health officials in Costa Rica have identified 1,435 hepatitis A cases, July 18-Oct. 3 compared to only 118 cases reported in 2022. The most at-risk area is San Jose reporting 960 hepatitis A cases followed by Alajuela (167 cases) and Heredia (94 cases). Health officials recommend residents maintain basic health precautions when preparing food and always clean their hands. This is the latest information as of Oct. 5.

Context

Costa Rica reported its largest hepatitis A outbreak in 2019, when 1,584 cases were identified. Between 2020-2022, only less than 500 cases were reported annually.

Hepatitis A is a vaccine-preventable disease transmitted directly through food or water contaminated with fecal material from an infected person. Symptoms typically appear 4 weeks after exposure, but can develop 2 weeks to 2 months after exposure. Symptoms include fever, nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, fatigue, dark urine, loss of appetite, joint pain, and jaundice (yellowing of the skin and eyes).

Advice

Consult a travel medicine provider before departure regarding hepatitis A vaccination. Practice food and water precautions. Seek medical attention if symptoms develop within two months of being in affected areas.