HomeNewsCosta RicaCosta Rica coronavirus updates for Tuesday, September 15

Costa Rica coronavirus updates for Tuesday, September 15

Costa Rica announced 12 new coronavirus-related deaths over the last day for a total of 633, according to official data released Tuesday afternoon by the Health Ministry.

Six-hundred and thirty-one people are hospitalized with COVID-19; 249 are in intensive care. Both figures represent new highs.

The Health Ministry on Tuesday announced 777 new cases for a cumulative total of 58,137. A total of 21,536 people have been cleared as recovered.

Costa Rica has 35,968 known active cases. The data indicate Costa Rica has 12.38 COVID-19-related deaths per 100,000 people. The country is averaging 13 deaths each day in September.

The deaths comprise 212 adults and 421 elderly adults; no children have died of COVID-19 in Costa Rica.

Costa Rica has 359 intensive-care beds and 986 beds for less-complex coronavirus hospitalizations. This means 69% of Costa Rica’s ICU beds are currently occupied.

Costa Rica coronavirus cases on Sept. 15, 2020
Tico Times graph.

Changes to alert levels

The National Emergency Commission (CNE) announced the following changes to the alert levels:

  • The cantons of Naranjo (Alajuela), Oreamuno (Cartago), Flores (Heredia), San Pablo (Heredia), Goicoechea (San José), and Mora (San José) move to a Yellow Alert.
  • The cantons of Zarcero (Alajuela), San Isidro (Heredia), San Rafael (Heredia), Siquirres (Limón), and Aserrí (San José) move to an Orange Alert.

The changes to alert levels have a minimal impact on economic activity, as Costa Rica remains in an “Open Phase” until the end of September. To see a full list of cantons under Yellow/Orange alerts, click here.

Despite the increase in cases, most economic activity is allowed, and tourists from certain countries — including a growing list of U.S. states — can enter.

The below graphic will update automatically as the Health Ministry releases new coronavirus data.

If you believe you have COVID-19, contact Costa Rica’s hotline at 1322. English-speaking staff and mental health professionals are available.

Trending Now

Costa Rica Braces for Afternoon Storms as Tropical Wave No. 48 Arrives

Tropical Wave No. 48 is expected to cross Costa Rica today bringing a greater chance of afternoon downpours and thunderstorms as already wet areas...

Costa Rica Foreign Investment Jumps 23% as Tourism Investment Falls 27%

Free zones drove a 23.4% rise in Costa Rica's foreign direct investment in the first half of 2026, while tourism investment fell 27%.

Who is behind Costa Rica’s proposed AI data centers?

Two AI data centers seek vast power and water in Costa Rica. Who is financing them is still unknown.

El Niño Could End Costa Rica’s Rainy Season Early This Year

El Niño could end Costa Rica's rainy season early. Here is what an 80% September rain shortfall in Guanacaste means for your water and plans.

Costa Rica Moves to Restrict Imports Linked to Forced Labor

Costa Rica is setting up a new system to keep goods made with forced labor from entering, a move that comes a little more...

Costa Rica Falls Six Places in FIFA Ranking After Two Losses

Costa Rica’s national soccer team has taken another hit after a rough start to the Concacaf Nations League, dropping six places in FIFA’s live...

Keylor Navas Returns as Bryan Ruiz Names First Costa Rica Squad

Keylor Navas returns as interim coach Bryan Ruiz names his first Costa Rica squad for Nations League matches against Nicaragua and Haiti.

Used-Car Importers Take Costa Rica’s New Vehicle Tax Formula to Court

Costa Rica's used-car importers will challenge in court a Hacienda decree they say doubles or triples import taxes. The ministry cites evasion.

Costa Rica Ombudsman Condemns Justice Minister’s Prison Video

Costa Rica's ombudsman condemned a Justice Ministry video showing inmates on a prison floor. The minister says her opinion isn't binding.
Loading…

Latest News from Costa Rica

Costa Rica Coffee Maker Chorreador
Costa Rica Car Rentals
Costa Rica Travel Insurance
Costa Rica Travel