You will be pleased to discover that the standard of living and hygiene in Costa Rica is relatively high compared to most Latin American countries...

You will be pleased to discover that the standard of living and hygiene in Costa Rica is relatively high compared to most Latin American countries. Staying healthy during your time in Costa Rica comes down to personal hygiene and a healthy dose of common sense; stay away from food sold by street vendors; peel and wash fruits and vegetables with potable water before eating; stick to hot, well-cooked meals; wash your hands frequently and before eating. Although water is supposedly potable in San Jose and the main towns, as a precaution, we suggest you stick to drinking bottled or boiled water at all times.

The two most prevalent public health problems in Costa Rica are dengue fever and malaria, both are transmitted by mosquitoes and do not have preventive vaccines. The best precaution is to avoid being bitten by avoiding places with stagnant water, wear long-sleeved clothing at and after dusk, apply insect repellent containing DEET. In mosquito infested areas, spray the area where you sleep with insecticide or burn mosquito coils, or sleep under mosquito nets. If your visit is longer than 6 weeks, or your plans include traveling to remote areas or involve coming into contact with animals, check with your family doctor about the need for vaccinations against hepatitis A and typhoid.

Other precautions:

·      Avoid sunbathing between 11.30 am and 14.30 pm. Apply lots of sun block if you are out on the beach or open trails, even on overcast days. Rub and cover thoroughly prior to sun exposure; wear your sunhat and sunglasses to protect your eyes from extreme sun glare.

·      Keep hydrated by constantly drinking lots of water throughout the day; 6 full glasses per day minimum for adults is recommended. Remember that alcoholic and caffeinated beverages do not hydrate your body like H₂O. If you are traveling with children, give them water instead of soft drinks.

·      Avoid walking in bare feet or sandals in grassy and wet areas. Proper footwear or boots can prevent ticks and leeches from sticking to your body. If you encounter a snake, stay still until it slithers away. Shake your shoes before putting them on in the morning, as scorpions and spiders are not uncommon in lodging facilities in the rainforests.

Costa Rica has an advanced public health system which is ranked as the best in Latin America and one of the top 20 in the world. Public and private healthcare providers are abundant, pharmacies are numerous, hospitals have the latest equipment, and laboratories are excellent. You should have no trouble at all finding doctors, clinics and medical services in every town and city.