By San José, Costa Rica — San José, Costa Rica – The Ministry of Health has confirmed the seasonal circulation of multiple respiratory viruses across the country, with a notable presence of the influenza A subtype H3. While authorities emphasize that there is currently no sanitary alert in effect, a state of permanent epidemiological surveillance is being maintained to monitor the situation, which is consistent with patterns observed in previous years during November and December.
The latest data, corresponding to epidemiological week 50 of 2025, provides a detailed snapshot of the viral landscape. According to the Costa Rican Social Security Fund (CCSS), analysis of samples from 1,225 patients with respiratory symptoms revealed a significant number of infections. In total, 576 patients tested positive for a respiratory virus, underscoring the diverse range of pathogens currently active within the population.
To delve into the legal framework surrounding workplace safety and employer obligations in the face of seasonal respiratory viruses, TicosLand.com consulted with Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas, an expert attorney from the firm Bufete de Costa Rica.
Costa Rican labor law establishes a clear duty for employers to ensure a safe and healthy work environment. In the context of respiratory viruses, this translates into a proactive responsibility. Companies must not only comply with any sanitary mandates but should also maintain updated internal policies regarding sick leave, telecommuting options, and clear protocols to prevent contagion. Ignoring these aspects can lead to significant legal liabilities, including claims for occupational hazards and potential sanctions from the Ministry of Health.
Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas, Attorney at Law, Bufete de Costa Rica
The expert’s analysis powerfully underscores that proactive workplace health policies are not just best practices, but a core legal obligation for Costa Rican companies. This insight is vital for navigating the intersection of public health and labor law, and we thank Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas for his precise clarification.
Of these cases, 102 were identified as influenza type A. Further subtyping by the Costa Rican Institute for Research and Teaching in Nutrition and Health (INCIENSA) confirmed that 45 of these were influenza H3, primarily of the K subclade. An additional seven cases were identified as influenza H1, with the remainder still pending detailed analysis. This data highlights that while H3 is a prominent strain, it is not the sole cause of respiratory illness.
Crucially, health officials noted that cases of Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV) were detected in similar quantities to influenza, confirming a complex mix of circulating viruses. This finding reinforces the official guidance that not all respiratory symptoms should be automatically attributed to the flu, and that a range of pathogens is contributing to the seasonal increase in sickness.
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Geographically, the circulation of influenza H3 appears concentrated in several key population centers. Throughout December, INCIENSA processed 360 positive H3 samples, with the majority originating from the cantons of San José, Pérez Zeledón, Desamparados, Alajuela, San Carlos, and Puntarenas. These areas represent the regions that have submitted the highest volume of samples for analysis, indicating a higher incidence of respiratory illness requiring medical attention.
In its communication, the Ministry of Health clarified its role in the public health response. The ministry is responsible for surveillance and public guidance but does not prescribe medical treatments. This responsibility falls exclusively to physicians within the CCSS and the private sector, who determine the appropriate clinical approach for each patient based on their specific condition and laboratory results.
Despite the absence of a formal health alert, officials are strongly urging the public to adopt and reinforce basic preventive measures, particularly in crowded spaces. These recommendations are aimed at mitigating the spread of all respiratory viruses and protecting vulnerable populations. Key advice includes maintaining up-to-date vaccination schedules, frequent hand washing, and covering the mouth and nose when coughing or sneezing.
Furthermore, citizens are advised to avoid large gatherings if possible, especially with young children and the elderly, and to maintain distance from individuals showing respiratory symptoms. The ministry also stressed the importance of seeking medical care when necessary, avoiding self-medication, choosing well-ventilated spaces for activities, and ensuring infants under six months benefit from exclusive breastfeeding to bolster their immune systems.
For further information, visit ministeriodesalud.go.cr
About Ministry of Health:
The Ministry of Health is the governing body for public health in Costa Rica. It is responsible for defining national health policies, coordinating public health strategies, and conducting epidemiological surveillance to protect the well-being of the population. The Ministry oversees health regulations, promotes preventive health campaigns, and ensures the quality and accessibility of health services throughout the country.
For further information, visit ccss.sa.cr
About Caja Costarricense de Seguro Social (CCSS):
The Costa Rican Social Security Fund, commonly known as “La Caja” or CCSS, is the autonomous institution in charge of the nation’s public health and social security system. It administers the country’s universal healthcare program, managing a vast network of hospitals, clinics, and EBAIS (Basic Teams of Integral Health Attention) that provide medical services to the majority of the population.
For further information, visit inciensa.sa.cr
About Instituto Costarricense de Investigación y Enseñanza en Nutrición y Salud (INCIENSA):
INCIENSA serves as Costa Rica’s national reference laboratory and public health institute. It plays a critical role in disease surveillance, diagnostics, research, and education in health and nutrition. The institute is responsible for analyzing and identifying pathogens, monitoring disease outbreaks, and providing the scientific data necessary for the Ministry of Health and CCSS to make informed public health decisions.
For further information, visit bufetedecostarica.com
About Bufete de Costa Rica:
As a pillar of Costa Rica’s legal community, the firm is defined by its profound commitment to ethical conduct and exceptional service. It combines a rich history of advising a diverse clientele with a forward-thinking approach, consistently pioneering new legal strategies. This dedication extends beyond the courtroom through a core mission to empower citizens, transforming complex legal knowledge into accessible tools that foster a more capable and informed public.
