Malaria in Costa Rica and Nicaragua (La Trocha)

According to Spanish media, on 22 September 2021, an outbreak of malaria has been reported in the settlement of La Trocha (Huetar Norte region) on the border between Costa Rica and Nicaragua.

There have been eight cases on the Costa Rica side of the border and seven in Nicaragua. Malaria is unusual in this area and this outbreak is thought to be linked to cross-border travel through La Trocha.

Advice for travellers

While higher than expected cases of malaria continue to be reported, travellers to this area should: 

• be made aware of the risk of malaria, given the current increase in cases 
• practise strict mosquito bite avoidance 
• consider antimalarial chemoproprophylaxis if in a group at higher risk from malaria

Travellers returning from malarious areas should seek prompt medical advice if they develop a fever during travel or on their return, ensuring they highlight their potential exposure to malaria.

Further advice and information on malaria is available on the TRAVAX (for health professionals) and fitfortravel (for the general public) websites.

Source: TRAVAX, 22 September 2021