Optimal mosquito protection 24/7 throughout the country (at dusk and at night against malaria, during the day against dengue and other arboviruses) is important!
Important for all travelers to Costa Rica: In case of fever, malaria should be ruled out with a blood test.
Canada: Within one year, Canada reported 5’138 measles cases (4’777 confirmed, 361 probable). As a result, the WHO Region America has lost its measles elimination status according to World Health Organization (WHO).
USA: As of November 4, 2025, a total of 1’681 confirmed measles cases were reported in the United States, including 23 measles cases among international visitors. There have been 44 outbreaks, with 87% of cases linked to outbreaks, compared with 16 outbreaks and 69% outbreak-associated cases in 2024.
In addition, currently active measles outbreaks are ongoing in other countries of the WHO Region Americas such as Mexico, Bolivia, Brazil, Paraguay, Belize, as well as in Europe, Africa and Asia.
Measles spread quickly and can be dangerous - protection is simple: get vaccinated!
Swiss recommendations: All persons born after 1963 who have no documented protection against the infection (antibodies or 2 documented vaccinations) should be vaccinated twice with MMR vaccine at a one month interval. In the event of an epidemic in the region or contact with a measles case, vaccination is recommended from the age of 6 months.
Exposure to potentially rabid animals is common, especially during travel. Rabies can be prevented through pre-exposure vaccination!
Due to the global shortage of rabies immunoglobulins — crucial for unvaccinated individuals after potential rabies exposure — the Swiss Expert Committee for Travel Medicine advises a more generous approach to recommending rabies vaccination before travel. Pre-exposure rabies vaccination for travel should be considered a once-in-a-lifetime investment!
In general: avoid contact with animals and do not feed them.
Behavior after exposure: After an animal bite/scratch: immediately wash the wound with water and soap for 15 minutes, then disinfect and in any case visit a high-quality medical center for post-exposure vaccination as soon as possible!
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