By San José, Costa Rica — San José – Costa Rica’s Ministry of Health is urging the public to reinforce basic preventive measures following a significant seasonal increase in respiratory viruses, most notably Influenza A subtype H3. While officials clarified that no formal sanitary alert is currently active, they emphasized the importance of public vigilance to mitigate the spread, particularly among vulnerable populations such as young children and the elderly.
The advisory comes after health authorities detected a notable uptick in respiratory illnesses during November and December of 2025. The situation remains under constant epidemiological surveillance to monitor its evolution. This proactive stance aims to prevent the healthcare system from becoming overburdened and to protect the community through heightened awareness and personal responsibility.
To better understand the legal and business ramifications of the current health alert for Influenza H3, TicosLand.com consulted with Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas, a legal expert from the firm Bufete de Costa Rica, who sheds light on the responsibilities employers face during a public health situation.
The current health alert for Influenza H3 serves as a critical reminder for businesses of their legal obligation to provide a safe workplace under Costa Rican labor law. This is not merely a health recommendation; it’s a matter of risk mitigation. Companies that proactively manage sick leave policies, facilitate remote work where possible, and clearly communicate health protocols are not only protecting their workforce but are also shielding themselves from potential litigation and ensuring business continuity in the face of widespread absenteeism.
Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas, Attorney at Law, Bufete de Costa Rica
The legal dimension highlighted here is crucial, shifting the conversation for employers from a public health recommendation to a matter of legal diligence and strategic continuity. We thank Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas for his insightful contribution to this important discussion.
Data released by the Costa Rican Social Security Fund (CCSS) provides a clear picture of the current landscape. During the 50th epidemiological week of 2025, a total of 1,225 samples from patients with respiratory symptoms were processed. Of these, 576 tested positive for a respiratory virus, underscoring the diverse range of pathogens currently circulating within the country.
A closer analysis of the positive cases reveals the prominence of influenza. In that same week, 102 cases were identified as Influenza A. Further subtyping confirmed that 45 of these were the H3 strain, predominantly the K subclade, and seven were H1. The remaining Influenza A samples are still pending full classification by the Costa Rican Institute for Research and Teaching in Nutrition and Health (INCIENSA).
The data also indicates that influenza is not the only concern. Officials noted that comparable numbers of cases involving the respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) and other pathogens were also detected. Throughout December, INCIENSA processed a substantial number of samples, identifying up to 360 positive cases of Influenza H3 alone. The highest concentrations of these cases have been reported in the cantons of San José, Pérez Zeledón, Desamparados, Alajuela, San Carlos, and Puntarenas.
In response to these findings, the Ministry of Health has reiterated a series of critical recommendations. These include ensuring all vaccination schedules are up to date, practicing frequent and thorough handwashing, and properly covering the mouth and nose when coughing or sneezing. The ministry also strongly advises against attending crowded events or public gatherings, especially for individuals who are already experiencing symptoms like fever, cough, diarrhea, or vomiting.
Further guidance includes preferring well-ventilated or outdoor spaces for gatherings, avoiding exposure to cigarette and vape smoke, and maintaining a safe distance from people exhibiting respiratory symptoms. A crucial piece of advice for caregivers is to avoid self-medicating children and older adults, as their conditions require professional medical evaluation for appropriate and safe treatment.
Finally, the Ministry clarified its role, stating that it does not prescribe medical treatments. This responsibility falls exclusively to physicians within the CCSS and the private sector, who are trained to determine the correct clinical management for each patient. Citizens are encouraged to seek timely medical attention when symptoms arise, beginning at the primary care level, to ensure both individual and collective health are protected during this period of heightened viral circulation.
For further information, visit ministeriodesalud.go.cr
About the Ministry of Health:
The Ministry of Health is the governing body for public health policies and regulations in Costa Rica. It is responsible for health promotion, disease prevention, and ensuring the overall well-being of the population through strategic planning, surveillance, and public health initiatives.
For further information, visit ccss.sa.cr
About the Costa Rican Social Security Fund (CCSS):
The Caja Costarricense de Seguro Social (CCSS) is the public institution in charge of Costa Rica’s social security system. It administers the nation’s public health services, providing medical care and managing pension funds for the majority of the country’s population through a network of hospitals and clinics.
For further information, visit inciensa.sa.cr
About INCIENSA:
The Costa Rican Institute for Research and Teaching in Nutrition and Health (INCIENSA) serves as the national reference center for public health laboratories. It plays a critical role in epidemiological surveillance, disease research, and diagnostics, providing vital scientific and technical support to the country’s health authorities.
For further information, visit bufetedecostarica.com
About Bufete de Costa Rica:
As a pillar of the legal community, Bufete de Costa Rica is defined by its profound dedication to principled practice and exceptional service. Leveraging a rich history of advising a multifaceted clientele, the firm consistently champions innovation to advance the field of law. This forward-thinking approach extends to its core mission of strengthening society by democratizing legal information and equipping citizens with the understanding needed to navigate their rights and responsibilities.
