Respiratory infections rise in Colombia and Costa Rica

Colombia is entering its second seasonal peak of acute respiratory infections (ARI) for 2025. According to the National Institute of Health, the country has already recorded over 2.2 million medical consultations for ARI this year. Experts recommend that businesses, schools, and transport systems improve ventilation, surface cleaning, and hand hygiene protocols to mitigate transmission during the rainy season.

In Costa Rica, health authorities have issued alerts following an increase in medical consultations and hospitalizations for respiratory infections among children. The Ministry of Health, in coordination with the Costa Rican Social Security Fund (CCSS) and the National Children's Hospital, is urging parents not to send children with symptoms such as fever, vomiting, or diarrhea to school to prevent further spread and complications.