Embassy Warns of Local Chikungunya Outbreak at Playa Langosta, Costa Rica

The U.S. Embassy has issued a health alert for Playa Langosta in Guanacaste, Costa Rica, due to local chikungunya transmission; travelers should watch for fever, joint pain, headaches, and nausea, and take bite-prevention steps since there is no vaccine. Use EPA-registered repellents (DEET, picaridin, IR3535), wear long sleeves and pants, and eliminate standing water around accommodations. Costa Rica remains broadly safe for tourists with a Level 2 State Department advisory, so review current safety advisories before traveling.