The Ministry of Health has reported an outbreak of Escherichia coli at the La Reforma Penitentiary Center, resulting in gastrointestinal symptoms such as diarrhea and vomiting among inmates and staff.
In response to the situation, authorities immediately issued administrative actions and activated protocols aimed at controlling and containing the outbreak. The ministry stated, “Se emitió de manera inmediata los actos administrativos correspondientes y se activaron los protocolos para el control y contención del brote.” (Immediate administrative actions were taken and protocols for control and containment of the outbreak were activated.)
More than 100 individuals have been affected by the bacteria, but there have been no hospitalizations or transfers to health centers. The Ministry of Health has increased healthcare personnel at the facility and continues to implement preventive measures.
Ongoing weekly epidemiological surveillance is being maintained, with permanent monitoring until the outbreak is fully contained. According to the ministry, “El Ministerio de Salud mantiene la vigilancia epidemiológica semanal y continuará dando seguimiento permanente hasta la total contención del brote.” (The Ministry of Health maintains weekly epidemiological surveillance and will continue permanent follow-up until full containment of the outbreak.)
The incident highlights ongoing efforts by Costa Rican health authorities to manage infectious disease outbreaks within institutional settings.
