Costa Rica reports 177 malaria cases in 2024

In Costa Rica, malaria has experienced sustained growth in cases since 2017.

In 2024, until epidemiological week 19, 177 cases are reported, of which of which 125 are indigenous, 33 imported, 15 pending classification and 4 relapses.

Currently, the country has seen 10 active outbreaks.

Autochthonous cases are linked to focus of Limón, Jardín and Los Chiles, caused by the species Plasmodium falciparum.

On the other hand, the imported cases are related to the migratory route through the Darién Forest, Panama, and are caused by the species P. vivax. This finding suggests the possible introduction of the disease from other regions, which highlights the importance of maintaining a effective epidemiological surveillance and adopt control measures both locally and internationally.