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Press release
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- - The country still has no proven virus circulation
- - The Costa Rica Ministry of Health and Tourism Board have asked all executives from the national tourism sector to strengthen their cleaning efforts and the elimination of possible breeding sites
SAN JOSE, COSTA RICA – Feb. 8, 2016 – The Zika virus should not hinder local and international travelers decision to visit the many Costa Rican tourist attractions.
In an official statement issued on Feb. 1 by the World Health Organization (WHO), supported by the World Tourism Organization (UNWTO), it was stated that no travel restrictions should be imposed on areas affected by the Zika virus. Moreover, there is no scientific evidence of the presence of the virus in Costa Rica.
“The peak tourist season coincides with the dry season in Costa Rica, which decreases the chances of having mosquitos in the country during this period. However, now is the perfect opportunity to prepare for the green season and take all the necessary precautions, such as eliminating possible mosquito breeding sites,” said Dr. Daniel Salas Peraza, health surveillance director of the Ministry of Health.
The Costa Rica Tourism Board (ICT) has requested the tourism private sector and the coastal municipalities to implement preventive measures to control the virus, such as eliminating mosquito breeding sites, given that this season is usually a popular time for travel to Costa Rica. It is expected that if all the recommendations given by the Costa Rica Ministry of Health are followed, this travel season will be more successful than others in the past.
Regardless, the ICT urges collaboration between associations, businesses and community members to disseminate preventive information, so the country continues to be considered a safe destination for tourists.
The Costa Rica Ministry of Health and Tourism Board have asked all executives from the national tourism sector to strengthen their cleaning efforts and the elimination of possible breeding sites. They also ask the same from all tourism and gastronomical establishments that have a special interest in the health and economic wellbeing of their region.
