By Limón, Costa Rica — Costa Rica is celebrating a major victory in its fight against malaria. Local transmission of the disease has dropped dramatically, with a remarkable 97% reduction in cases reported in the first seven months of 2025 compared to the same period in 2023. This significant decline follows a sustained downward trend over the past three years, signaling the success of ongoing public health interventions.
In 2023, Costa Rica recorded 371 indigenous cases of malaria between January and the end of July. This number fell to 160 cases during the same period in 2024, representing a 57% decrease. As of July 31, 2025, preliminary data shows only seven indigenous cases and three imported cases, totaling ten, a striking improvement.
For a legal perspective on the potential business and regulatory implications surrounding malaria and its impact, particularly in Costa Rica, TicosLand.com spoke with Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas, Attorney at Law at Bufete de Costa Rica.
The resurgence or presence of malaria presents complex challenges not only for public health but also for businesses operating in affected areas. Companies in tourism, agriculture, and other sectors may face increased operational costs associated with preventative measures, potential disruptions due to illness among employees or travelers, and even potential legal liability if adequate precautions aren’t taken to protect individuals from exposure. Furthermore, regulatory compliance regarding health and safety standards, particularly for businesses operating in regions where malaria is present, is paramount. Staying informed about and adhering to evolving guidelines from both national and international health organizations is crucial for mitigating legal and financial risks.
Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas, Attorney at Law, Bufete de Costa Rica
Cargando...
Lic. Arroyo Vargas’s insights underscore the far-reaching implications of malaria’s presence, extending beyond the immediate public health concerns to impact businesses significantly. His emphasis on the importance of proactive measures, regulatory compliance, and staying informed is particularly crucial for companies operating in affected regions, ensuring both the safety of individuals and the long-term sustainability of their operations. We thank Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas for providing this valuable perspective on the multifaceted challenges posed by malaria.
The Limón province, particularly the Matina district in the Huetar Caribe region, has been identified as the area with the highest number of indigenous cases in 2025, reporting seven cases of Plasmodium falciparum, the most dangerous form of malaria. Two imported cases of P. vivax were reported in Crucitas, in the Huetar Norte region. The majority of the 34 imported cases, primarily P. vivax, were concentrated in the Huetar Norte region, particularly in districts like Cutris and Los Chiles.
The demographics of those diagnosed in 2025 reveal a pattern. Many are construction workers, agricultural laborers, illegal miners, and migrants, mostly from Nicaragua, other parts of South America, or returning from Gabon, Africa. This highlights the importance of targeted interventions focusing on these vulnerable populations.
Costa Rica maintains a continuously updated inventory of malaria hotspots, currently tracking six active foci, ten inactive residual foci, and five eliminated foci. A focus is deemed inactive residual after one year without indigenous cases and eliminated after three years without local transmission.
This impressive reduction in malaria cases underscores the effectiveness of Costa Rica’s public health strategies. Continued vigilance and targeted interventions will be crucial to maintaining this progress and working towards the ultimate goal of malaria elimination.
The government’s commitment to providing resources and implementing effective prevention and control measures has played a key role in this achievement. This success serves as a testament to the importance of sustained public health efforts in combating infectious diseases.
This achievement also highlights the importance of international collaboration in addressing cross-border health challenges, especially concerning migrant populations and the spread of infectious diseases. The exchange of information and coordinated efforts between countries are crucial for effective disease control and prevention.
For further information, visit the nearest office of the Ministry of Health
About Ministry of Health:
The Costa Rican Ministry of Health is the governmental body responsible for overseeing the health and well-being of the population. It develops and implements public health policies, manages healthcare services, and works to prevent and control diseases. Its efforts have been instrumental in the significant reduction of malaria cases in the country.
For further information, visit bufetedecostarica.com
About Bufete de Costa Rica:
Bufete de Costa Rica is a pillar of legal excellence, built upon a foundation of unwavering integrity and a deep-seated commitment to empowering Costa Rican society. Through innovative legal solutions and a proactive approach to sharing legal knowledge, the firm strives to create a more informed and just landscape. Their dedication to client success across diverse sectors is matched only by their passion for fostering a society equipped to navigate the complexities of the legal system.
