Coronavirus in Costa Rica: 21 new cases, 8 more recoveries

Costa Rica confirmed 21 new cases of the coronavirus over the past day, totaling 951 cumulative known cases, the Health Ministry announced Monday afternoon.

Over the same period, eight more people recovered from COVID-19, leaving Costa Rica with 628 total recoveries and 313 known active cases.

The 21 new cases are the highest day-over-day increase since April 9.

“This is a call to attention,” said Health Minister Daniel Soto. “There could come a moment when cases could skyrocket and there would be nothing we could do, so that’s why we need to be vigilant.”

Ten people have died after contracting the coronavirus. Fifteen people are hospitalized with COVID-19; two people are in intensive care.

Costa Rica has processed a total of 23,580 diagnostic tests for SARS-CoV-2 (202 more than Sunday), which corresponds to 4,613 tests per 1 million people. The country has averaged 330 daily tests over the last five days.

Ongoing coronavirus measures

Costa Rica has extended its border restrictions, banning foreign visitors until June 15. The government has announced a timeline for reopening the country and began opening national parks and beaches last week.

“Imported cases are one of the biggest risks we face as a country,” Román Macaya, president of the Costa Rican Social Security System, said Saturday.

Health Minister Daniel Salas said Monday that Costa Rica will re-apply measures if the amount of cases begins impacting the country’s healthcare capacity.

“Let’s be responsible, please,” said the Minister of Public Security, Michael Soto, noting the amount of people who have flouted health recommendations. “You are risking your health, and also the health of your family and people around you.”

If you believe you may have contracted the coronavirus or have questions regarding the virus, contact Costa Rican health authorities by dialing 1322.

Active coronavirus cases in Costa Rica

Abangares and La Cruz each recorded four new cases on Monday; Cañas has seen the most significant rise in active cases over the last week.

Click a blue marker for more information. Data updated through May 25.

Timeline of COVID-19 in Costa Rica

• March 6: Costa Rica confirms first COVID-19 case.
• March 9: Costa Rica suspends mass gatherings, tells employees to work from home.
• March 16: Costa Rica declares State of Emergency, restricts entry to non-citizens
• and non-residents. In-person teaching suspended.
• March 18: Costa Rica reports first COVID-19-related death.
• March 20: Costa Rica reports second COVID-19-related death. All national parks close.
• March 23: Beaches and religious centers ordered to close. Nighttime driving ban announced.
• March 31: Costa Rica inaugurates coronavirus-specific hospital at CENARE.
• April 4-12: Costa Rica imposes significant travel restrictions during Semana Santa.
• April 15: Costa Rica reports fourth COVID-19-related death.
• April 17: Costa Rica registers first day-over-day decrease in known active coronavirus cases. This trend continues until May 12.
• April 19: Costa Rica reports fifth COVID-19-related death.
• April 20: Costa Rica reports sixth COVID-19-related death.
• May 1: Costa Rica begins easing coronavirus measures.
• May 10: Costa Rica reports seventh COVID-19-related death.
• May 13: Costa Rica reports eighth COVID-19-related death.
• May 15: Costa Rica reports ninth and tenth COVID-19-related deaths.
• May 18: Costa Rica begins opening beaches and national parks.

Costa Rica is enforcing nationwide driving restrictions until June 1. Click here for full details.