The Ministry of Health has announced that several respiratory viruses, including influenza type A subtype H3, are circulating in the country as is typical for this time of year. Authorities clarified that there is currently no health alert related to respiratory infections.
Recent data indicate a seasonal pattern for these viruses during November and December 2025, with ongoing monitoring by health officials. According to information from the Costa Rican Social Security Fund (CCSS), 45 cases of influenza H3 were confirmed at the end of epidemiological week 50, most belonging to subclade K. These figures reflect patients who sought care for respiratory symptoms.
During that week, samples from 1,225 patients were processed. In December alone, INCIENSA analyzed 360 positive samples for influenza H3. The majority of these cases have been reported in San José, Pérez Zeledón, Desamparados, Alajuela, San Carlos, and Puntarenas—cantons which have sent the most samples for testing.
The Ministry emphasized its role regarding medical treatment: “The Ministry of Health reminds that it does not prescribe medical treatments. The indication of medications corresponds exclusively to CCSS doctors and those in the private sector, who determine appropriate treatment based on clinical evaluation and laboratory results for each patient.”
Although there is no current health alert, the Ministry recommends maintaining and strengthening basic preventive measures, particularly in crowded spaces.
“The Ministry of Health maintains constant epidemiological surveillance and reiterates its commitment to protecting public health,” stated the agency.
