The Costa Rica Ministry of Health is actively investigating an outbreak of foodborne illness affecting workers at CIMA Hospital, located in Escazú, San José, in order to determine the source of the exposure and establish appropriate health measures.
According to the preliminary information available, there have been 66 suspected cases, two laboratory-confirmed cases, two people hospitalized, and no deaths.
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The main symptoms reported include diarrhea, abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, fever, and general malaise. Laboratory tests have identified the presence of Salmonella spp . in the cases investigated, which is guiding the ongoing epidemiological and microbiological actions.
“We are continuing to analyze epidemiological and laboratory data to identify the common exposure factor and determine the possible transmission mechanism. These actions are essential to advance the investigation and clarify the origin of the outbreak,” said Dr. Christian Valverde, Director General of Health.
On Friday, the U.S. Embassy San José, Costa Rica issued a health alert advising its personnel to consider alternative locations for medical care until the outbreak has been resolved.