The Ministry of Health announced on April 16 the confirmation of a fourth imported case of measles in Costa Rica. The case involves a 35-year-old Costa Rican man from Cartago who recently traveled to Guatemala and is recovering without complications.
This update is significant as it highlights ongoing efforts by health authorities to monitor and contain the spread of measles, especially with recent increases in cases across the Americas. The Ministry said that both its staff and personnel from the Costa Rican Social Security Fund (CCSS) have taken epidemiological measures, provided recommendations to family members and close contacts, and will continue active searches for potential secondary cases.
According to the Ministry, interagency cooperation will remain key in controlling any possible outbreak and safeguarding public health. The last endemic case of measles in Costa Rica was recorded in 1999. So far this year, three other imported or import-related cases have been identified: one each in Pérez Zeledón, Pococà de Limón, and Coronado.
Measles is described as a highly contagious viral disease that typically begins with fever, cough, runny nose, and red eyes before developing into a skin rash starting on the face. It can be transmitted from four days before until four days after the rash appears. Transmission occurs easily through airborne droplets when an infected person coughs or sneezes—especially in crowded places such as airports or public transport.
Costa Rica’s official vaccination schedule includes two doses at 15 months and at four years old. The Ministry advises booster vaccinations for those traveling to countries with higher risk such as Canada, United States, Mexico, Guatemala, El Salvador, Bolivia, Paraguay, Brazil, Argentina, Uruguay and Peru.
The World Health Organization has reported a significant increase in measles cases across the Americas—from 466 cases in 2024 to over 14, confirmed cases by 2025—representing an increase of about 2500%. The Ministry urges citizens to keep their vaccinations up-to-date as “the most effective way to prevent measles,” reminding people only to seek information through official channels.
