However, cases of cholera were reported in 1996 and precautions should be considered. Consult the Health appendix for further information. Lower transmission risk exists in 20 cantons in the provinces of Guanacaste, Alajuela and Herida. There is negligible or no risk of malaria in the other cantons of the country. Drinking water outside main cities and towns may be contaminated and sterilisation is advisable.
Bottled water is available and is advised for the first few weeks of the stay.
Milk is pasteurised and dairy products are safe for consumption. Local meat, poultry, seafood, fruit and vegetables are generally considered safe to eat. Hepatitis A occurs. Dengue fever occurs. Cutaneous and mucocutaneous leishmanisis have also been reported.