Headline: Costa Rica Toughens Fieber Yellow Entry Requirements; New Risk Zones and Certificates Explained
Subhead: Changes start February 11; what travelers need to know
Article:
Costa Rica announced it will strengthen its preventive measures against WHO)”>yellow fever by requiring visitors from South America and Africa to present an international vaccination certificate starting February 11. While this requirement isn’t new, the change includes expanded risk zones and updated entry rules that could affect more travelers.
The Ministry of Health clarified these updates in a conversation with Teletica.com, addressing common questions about the new regulations.
Who needs the certificate now?
Any traveler visiting Colombia will need the certificate to enter Costa Rica. Previously, this wasn’t required for visitors staying only in Bogotá.
How to obtain the certificate?
The World Health Organization (WHO) issues the certificate through the respective country’s health authority. In Costa Rica, it’s the Ministry of Health.
You can get it if you’ve received the yellow fever vaccine or if a medical certificate declares the vaccine is contraindicated for you.
Where and when to get vaccinated?
The Ministry of Health vaccinated 3,803 people for free on December 26-27, 2022. If you missed that campaign, Health will launch another one on January 26, 2023. Alternatively, you can get vaccinated at private clinics.
After getting vaccinated, visit your area’s Health Directorate between 8 AM and 4 PM, Monday through Friday, to request the international certificate. Bring your ID and proof of vaccination. If you can’t go personally, bring a power of attorney document.
What if my vaccine has expired or I can’t get vaccinated?
If you’ve previously received a yellow fever vaccine but your certificate has expired, you can still get an international certificate by visiting a Health Directorate with your expired card.
If you can’t get vaccinated due to a medical condition, present a certificate from the Costa Rican Social Security Fund (CCSS) or a private clinic confirming your contraindication.
When do the new rules take effect?
The updated requirement starts on February 11, 2023. Plan ahead and check the official Ministry of Health website for the latest updates.
Source: Teletica.com, Ministerio de Salud
