costa rica malaria
costa rica malaria
Should I take precautions against malaria in Costa Rica?
I am travelling to Manuel Antonio, Islita (Southern Guanacaste coast), Monteverde, and Arenal in December for my honeymoon.
Is it really necessary to take pills for malaria?
Also, I understand I need to take precautions against mosquitoes, but does this mean I should be covered in DEET 24 hours a day?
Thanks, from a nervous traveller!
We have traveled to Costa Rica extensively and lived there for a year (in Guanacaste). There is really no need to worry about Malaria. I have never had a single vaccination before going but I don’t think it would hurt to check out hepatitis and maybe get a tetanus update. The areas that you are going are very civilized and though the hospitals might not be what you are used to; they can take care of business and transfer you if need be to private hospitals in San Jose.
I rarely use the mosquito spray but simply wear long pants, socks and sleeves at night. In December, you will have little problem because the weather is dry and the winds pick up, making those pesky mosquitoes less of an issue.
Enjoy your trip and don’t worry! It is a very safe country in many ways! Manuel Antonio is one of the best places to view wildlife without being on an African safari!
