Mosquito-Borne Health Alert: The CDC issued a Level 2 travel advisory for Costa Rica after a chikungunya outbreak in Guanacaste’s Playa Langosta area, warning U.S. travelers to take enhanced precautions as local transmission spreads; Costa Rica’s Health Ministry reported confirmed and probable cases, with symptoms typically appearing days after mosquito bites. Public Health Watch: Costa Rica also confirmed a third mpox case, with the patient in stable condition and under isolation, as health authorities track links between cases. Tourism & Travel Routes: Guanacaste’s Liberia airport is adding new direct service—WestJet will launch Ottawa flights in December 2026, and United will start nonstop Washington-Dulles service during the holiday peak. Tourism Growth: Air arrivals rose 7.8% in the first half of 2026, with North America leading and the U.S. remaining the top source market. Environment & Resilience: Environmental groups launched a nationwide campaign to protect coral reefs ahead of stronger El Niño-driven ocean warming, urging communities and visitors to reduce pressure during the most stressful months. Healthcare Strain: Costa Rica’s public system faces a serious anesthesiologist shortage, forcing hospitals to close operating rooms and postpone surgeries. Business & Innovation: MICITT rolled out a free 5G training program for MSMEs, aiming to close the digital divide and boost competitiveness.