TravelVAX Clinic

Other Health Concerns

Routine Vaccinations

All travelers should ensure they are up-to-date with their routine immunizations. Some of these vaccines include: ● Chickenpox (Varicella) ● Tetanus-Diphtheria-Pertussis ● Measles-Mumps-Rubella (MMR) ● Pneumococcal (for adults aged 65 years and older, and all adults with chronic diseases or immunocompromising conditions)

Travel-Related Vaccines

Travelers should receive travel-related vaccines tailored for Costa Rica based on their itinerary and vaccination history. See below!

Yellow Fever

There is no risk of Yellow Fever in Costa Rica, and an official Yellow Fever vaccination certificate is not required for entry. If you are traveling to Costa Rica from a country other than Canada, please consult with one of our experts to determine if you need proof of Yellow Fever vaccination. Currently, please be cafeful as there is a risk of yellow fever at this point in time

Malaria Risk

While there is no risk of malaria in most parts of the country, there is a risk in some areas. Talk to a TravelVAX specialist to determine if you should take antimalarial medications for your trip.

Travelers’ Diarrhea

High risk exists for all travelers, including in deluxe accommodations. Traveler’s diarrhea affects up to 50% of travelers. Food and beverage precautions should be observed. Travelers are recommended to carry self-treatment medications for treatment of diarrhea, nausea, and vomiting. TravelVAX may provide you with self-treatment medications in case you experience the issue during your trip.

High Altitude

Altitude illness can be a major problem for travelers ascending to altitudes over 2,000 meters in some areas of Costa Rica. If you are arriving at a high altitude, it is very important to be well-informed about acclimatization and preventative measures. In addition to taking precautionary measures, most individuals should consider preventative medication. Talk to a travel health practitioner to determine if you will be at high altitude at any point during your stay and to learn about all the measures you can take to prevent altitude illness.

Medical Care

San Jose offers private medical care meeting international standards, though complex cases may need evacuation to Canada. Medical care elsewhere in the country often falls short of these standards. In emergencies, call Emergencias Medicas in San José at [+506] 2290-4444 or the national 911 number, but note that public ambulances are unreliable outside major cities, where taxis or private cars are better options. Hospitals serving foreigners typically require upfront payment, but this can be waived by some with international insurance tie-ups. Public hospitals provide emergency care regardless of payment ability.

Insect-Borne Diseases

Risk of Dengue, Chikungunya and Zika exists in Costa Rica. Risk varies seasonally. There is greater risk of these diseases in urban and suburban areas than rural regions. Traveler’s specific risk depends on factors such as specific areas of stay, length of stay, type of trip, activities involved, and etc. and should be discussed with one of our TravelVAX practitioner. It is very important that travelers observe insect precautions as there are currently no vaccines available against these diseases. Our Travel health practitioners will provide you with complete instructions on general protective measures and the selection and use of an insect repellent.

Safety and Security

There is a high risk of violent crime, including armed robbery, sexual assault, and murder, particularly in certain coastal areas of the country. Petty crime is common, especially in tourist areas such as San José, national parks, beaches, and various locations in the Caribbean and Puntarenas Province. Vehicle break-ins are frequent. Express kidnappings for ATM cash withdrawals occur nationwide. Tourists face risks of robbery and assault from consuming drugged food or drinks. TravelVAX professionals will provide you with comprehensive, updated tips and information about safety measures in Costa Rica.