Coronavirus in Costa Rica: 5 new cases, 6 more recoveries

Costa Rica confirmed five new cases of the coronavirus over the past day, totaling 956 cumulative known cases, the Health Ministry announced Tuesday afternoon.

Over the same period, six more people recovered from COVID-19, leaving Costa Rica with 634 total recoveries and 312 known active cases.

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

Costa Rica has processed a total of 23,703 diagnostic tests for SARS-CoV-2 (123 more than Monday), which corresponds to 4,637 tests per 1 million people. The country has averaged 230 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

Click a blue marker for more information. Data updated through May 25. We are updating with Tuesday’s data: 

Costa Rica coronavirus breakdown on May 26, 2020. Tico Times graph.

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.