Motor Vehicle Crashes. Motor vehicle crashes are a leading cause of injury among travelers. Walk and drive defensively. Avoid nighttime travel if possible and always use seat belts. General Health Information Costa Rica has suffered from a reemergence of dengue fever in recent years, although the incidence rate remains lower than in other Central American countries.
Dengue is transmitted by mosquito bite and there is no vaccine.
Travelers should take steps to avoid mosquito bites. Medical facilities are available, but may be limited outside urban areas. Doctors and hospitals often expect immediate cash payment for health services. U.S. medical insurance is not always valid outside the United States. Travelers have found that, in some cases, supplemental medical insurance with specific overseas coverage, including provision for medical evacuation, has proven to be useful.