AGP Executive Report

Hepatitis A Update: Costa Rica’s Ministry of Health confirmed 14 hepatitis A cases tied to contamination concerns in affected communities, with no hospitalizations or deaths reported so far, and officials ramping up surveillance plus water-system inspections after finding differences between supply networks. Rabies Alert (Livestock): A rabies outbreak in Golfito killed three cattle and triggered quarantine and vaccination of 165 animals, with preventive treatment for people with direct contact—another reminder to keep pets vaccinated in vampire-bat risk areas. CBD in Sports: Researchers at Universidad Nacional reviewed 70 studies and say CBD may have anti-inflammatory and pain-related benefits and could support recovery and performance, while stressing more clinical proof is still needed. Vape Rules Delayed: Costa Rica’s flavored vape deadline was pushed from Aug. 6, 2026 to Aug. 6, 2027, but the current restrictions (including public-space bans and limits on certain ingredients) remain in effect. Longevity Spotlight: A 119-year-old Costa Rican man, Jose Flores, credits daily walking, faith, and a simple diet (gallo pinto) for his long life, tying into the Nicoya “blue zone” reputation. Wellness & Lifestyle Trend: Costa Rica continues to be marketed as a wellness capital—less “spa schedule” and more nature-and-community living—while a separate report highlights how “hotcation” travel is reshaping health-minded vacation choices. Public Health Risk (Environment): A new look at pesticide use points to heavy chemical runoff impacts on the Caribbean coast’s rivers and ecosystems, raising concerns for long-term health and food-chain effects.

Rabies Alert: Costa Rica’s Ministry of Health is warning pet owners and ranchers after paralytic bovine rabies killed three cattle in Pilón near Pavones, Golfito; the farm was quarantined and all 165 cattle ordered vaccinated, with preventive treatment for people with direct contact. Hepatitis A & Water Safety: Health authorities confirmed 14 hepatitis A cases tied to Aserrí and San Juan de Dios de Desamparados, with no hospitalizations or deaths so far, while an extraordinary inspection of local water supply systems analyzed 10 samples to pinpoint contamination risk. Vape Deadline Shift: Costa Rica’s flavored vape rules were set to start Aug. 6, but an executive decree moved the compliance deadline to Aug. 6, 2027—keeping the same restrictions in place (including flavor limits, nicotine cap, advertising ban, and labeling). Environmental Health Watch: A new report flags pesticide runoff draining the Caribbean tourism economy, citing heavy chemical use and detected pesticide mixtures in rivers feeding Limón’s mangroves and reefs. Wellness Trend: A Costa Rica-focused piece argues the country’s nature-based approach is driving its rise as a wellness destination, especially for older travelers seeking lower-stress longevity.

Workforce & Tech Skills: PROCOMER is pushing specialized training for export-focused industries, including a Talent Development Incentive for exporting firms/FTZ businesses and 10,000 Google Cloud + AI scholarships under the Talent Up initiative. Wellness Tourism Spotlight: A new piece argues Costa Rica is becoming the next global wellness capital, leaning on nature and sustainability rather than “escape for a week” packages. Public Health Policy Update: Costa Rica’s flavored vape rules were delayed—liquids that were set to leave shelves today can still be sold until Aug. 6, 2027, while existing restrictions (like vaping in many public places) remain in force. Environmental Health Risk: Research highlights pesticide runoff draining into Costa Rica’s Caribbean waters, with detected mixtures linked to likely toxic effects on aquatic life near plantations. Wildlife Protection: Costa Rica’s Wildlife Crossings Bill cleared final legislative approval, requiring crossings in infrastructure projects where roads fragment habitats, aiming to reduce animal deaths on roads. Cognitive Health: A Latin America trial found older adults at risk of dementia improved more with a structured, coach-led lifestyle program than with a flexible self-guided version.

Wellness Travel Spotlight: A new wave of travelers is looking beyond “spa week” escapes and toward Costa Rica-style wellness rooted in nature, sustainability, and community. Public Health & Environment: Costa Rica’s Caribbean tourism economy faces a pesticide runoff problem, with research pointing to chemical mixtures in rivers near banana and pineapple areas that can harm aquatic life. Tobacco Harm Reduction Policy: Costa Rica’s flavored vape deadline was pushed—rules still restrict where vaping is allowed and keep synthetic nicotine/cannabinoids banned, but the tighter market schedule now starts in 2027. Wildlife Protection: Costa Rica’s Legislative Assembly approved a Wildlife Crossings law requiring animal-safe structures in new and existing public infrastructure where roads fragment habitats. Longevity & Brain Health: A multi-country Latin America trial found older adults at risk of dementia improved more with a coach-led lifestyle program than with a self-guided version. Sports Nutrition Research: A Costa Rica-linked review says CBD may have anti-inflammatory and recovery-related benefits for athletes, while stressing more clinical proof is needed.

COVID-19 Update: Costa Rica’s Ministry of Health reports COVID-19 is still circulating, with week 29 showing 126 confirmed cases (+34%) and 28 average hospitalizations (+56%), plus five deaths—urging vaccines up to date, handwashing, staying home when sick, and better ventilation. Tobacco & Vaping Policy: Costa Rica’s flavored vape deadline slipped again: liquids were set to leave shelves Aug. 6, but an executive decree moved the compliance date to Aug. 6, 2027, while keeping existing restrictions in place (public-space bans, nicotine limits, labeling/lab rules). Wildlife Protection: The Legislative Assembly approved a Wildlife Crossings law requiring crossings in new and existing public infrastructure projects where roads fragment habitats, with designs tailored by scientific studies. Environmental Health: New reporting highlights pesticide runoff impacts on Costa Rica’s Caribbean waters, linking heavy farm chemical use to detected pesticide mixtures and higher ecological risk near plantations. Longevity & Wellness: A Costa Rica-linked dementia prevention trial found older adults at risk of cognitive decline improved more with a structured, coach-led lifestyle program than a flexible self-guided version. Sports & Recovery: A Costa Rica-based review says CBD may have anti-inflammatory and potentially performance-enhancing effects for athletes, while calling for more research.

Wildlife Protection: Costa Rica’s Legislative Assembly unanimously approved a Wildlife Crossings Bill requiring wildlife-safe measures in new and existing public infrastructure projects, with designs (tunnels, underpasses, fencing, elevated bridges/ropes) set case-by-case by scientific studies to cut road deaths and reconnect habitats. Respiratory Health: The Ministry of Health reported COVID-19 is still circulating alongside other respiratory viruses, with week 29 showing a 34% jump in confirmed cases, higher hospitalizations, and five related deaths—urging vaccinations, hand hygiene, masking when sick, ventilation, and prompt care. Dementia Prevention Research: A large two-year, coach-led lifestyle trial across 11 Latin American countries (including Costa Rica) found structured support improved cognition about 55% more than a flexible self-guided version for older adults at risk. Longevity Spotlight: Nicoya Peninsula’s Blue Zone story continues with a reported 61 centenarians (potentially 73 by year-end), including a family seeking recognition for José Flores Flores as possibly the world’s oldest man. Local Health & Community: Starbucks opened its 33rd Costa Rica store in San José near Calderón Guardia Hospital, creating 14 direct jobs in a busy medical corridor.

COVID-19 Watch: Costa Rica’s Ministry of Health reports a 34% jump in confirmed COVID-19 cases for epidemiological week 29 (July 19–25), with hospitalizations up 56% and five deaths—urging people to stay vaccinated, wash hands, cover coughs, avoid crowds when sick, and seek care early. Wildlife Safety Law: The Legislative Assembly unanimously approved a Wildlife Crossings bill requiring science-based animal protection measures in new and existing public infrastructure to reduce road deaths and reconnect habitats, with designs tailored to species and terrain. Brain Health Program: A two-year Latin America trial (including Costa Rica sites) found older adults at risk of dementia improved more with a structured, coach-led lifestyle program than with a flexible self-guided version—about 55% greater cognitive gains. Longevity & “Blue Zones” Debate: A new piece challenges the popular Blue Zones narrative, pointing to concerns about shaky data behind longevity claims, including research questioning the concept’s foundations. Health-Adjacent Lifestyle Trends: A “Watertok” taste-test story spotlights flavored, low-sugar water powders and syrups—useful for readers thinking about everyday hydration choices.

COVID-19 Update (Costa Rica): The Ministry of Health reports COVID-19 is still circulating, with cases up 34% in epidemiological week 29 (126 confirmed) and hospitalizations rising 55.6% (28 ward admissions, 0 ICU) plus five deaths—urging people to stay vaccinated, wash hands, ventilate spaces, and seek care early. Brain Health (Costa Rica in a wider study): A two-year randomized trial across 11 Latin American countries, including Costa Rica, found older adults at risk of dementia improved more with a structured, coach-led lifestyle program than with a flexible self-guided version (about 55% greater cognitive gains). Longevity Spotlight (Nicoya, Costa Rica): Nicoya Peninsula—one of the world’s Blue Zones—has 61 centenarians and could reach 73 by end of 2026; researchers are also seeking verification for José Flores as a potential record-holder. Public Health & Travel (Mosquito-borne risk): Costa Rica is linked to a regional chikungunya alert chain, with the CDC noting Nicaragua as a “Watch” destination while Costa Rica reports an active outbreak and response efforts. Community Health (Romería): Costa Rica’s Romería operation closed with zero deaths, treating 1,772 people and transferring 34 to medical centers. Local Health Leadership (Education): Texas Tech named Paul Vita dean of its Costa Rica campus, starting Sept. 1, aiming to expand U.S.-style higher education tied to regional needs.

COVID-19 Update: Costa Rica’s Ministry of Health reports COVID-19 is gaining ground again, with confirmed cases up 34% in epidemiological week 29 (126 vs. 94), hospitalizations up 56% (28 in wards), and five deaths in one week—health officials urge people to stay vaccinated, wash hands, cover coughs, avoid sick crowds, and seek care early. Longevity & Brain Health: New reporting spotlights Blue Zones ideas—plus a two-year Latin America lifestyle program (LatAm-FINGERS) that improved memory and thinking in older adults at risk of dementia, especially with regular coaching and structured social support. Blue Zone Spotlight (Nicoya): Coverage highlights Nicoya Peninsula centenarians, including efforts to verify 119-year-old José Flores as the world’s oldest man, and notes the region’s longevity “poverty paradox.” Public Health & Travel Risk: CDC travel guidance flags chikungunya risk in Nicaragua after a vaccine pull in the U.S., while Costa Rica has already declared an active chikungunya outbreak in Guanacaste. Community Health & Safety: Costa Rica’s Romería wrapped up with zero deaths, after the Red Cross treated 1,772 people and emphasized hydration, proper footwear, and medication access. Health-Adjacent Policy & Governance: Social groups call for “Sit-ins for Democratic Justice” amid proposed judicial and extradition reforms—an issue that could affect public institutions and services.

Chikungunya Watch: Costa Rica is dealing with a rising chikungunya situation, with the CDC issuing a Level 1 “Watch” alert for Nicaragua after cases clustered around Managua—while Costa Rica had already declared an active outbreak in late June/early July after suspected cases in Playa Langosta, prompting mosquito-control efforts. COVID-19 Update: Costa Rica’s Ministry of Health reports a sharp COVID-19 jump: cases up 34% in one week, with five deaths and a 56% rise in hospitalizations, as the virus is now the top respiratory pathogen circulating. Romería Health Response: Costa Rica’s Romería to Cartago closed with zero deaths; the Red Cross treated 1,772 people over the final week, with heat illness and blood-pressure issues among the most common concerns. Longevity & Brain Health: New research highlights culturally adapted lifestyle programs across Latin America that improved memory and thinking in older adults at risk of dementia, with stronger gains tied to coached, structured support. Blue Zones Spotlight (Nicoya): Nicoya Peninsula remains a standout for centenarians, with researchers tracking long-lived residents despite the region’s relative poverty. Orchid Export Rules: Costa Rica’s MAG says orchid exporters can now ship Phalaenopsis plants in their original growing medium to the U.S., cutting labor and costs while reducing stress on sensitive roots. Earthquake Monitoring: OVSICORI-UNA revised a Cartago-area quake to magnitude 5.0 at 8 km depth and logged 60 aftershocks near Orosi, with continued monitoring.

COVID-19 Update: Costa Rica’s Ministry of Health reports a COVID-19 jump in epidemiological week 29 (July 13–19): 126 new cases, up from 94 the prior week, plus five deaths and a 56% rise in hospitalizations (29 inpatients vs. 18). Officials say COVID-19 is now the leading respiratory virus circulating nationwide and urge people—especially high-risk groups—to stay vaccinated, wash hands, cover coughs, avoid close contact when sick, and keep indoor spaces well ventilated. Romería Health Response: The Costa Rican Red Cross says the Romería de la Virgen de los Ángeles closed with zero deaths, treating 1,772 people over nine days and transferring 34 to hospitals; the most common issues were heat-related illness and blood pressure problems, with responders using more than 850 staff and 145 vehicles across aid stations. Brain Health & Dementia Prevention: A two-year, culturally adapted lifestyle program across 11 Latin American countries (LatAm-FINGERS) improved memory and thinking in older adults at risk of dementia, with the strongest gains among participants receiving regular coaching, supervised activities, and structured social support. Longevity Spotlight (Nicoya): Coverage highlights Nicoya Peninsula as a “blue zone” with unusually high numbers of centenarians, including research efforts to document extreme longevity in the region. Seismic Watch: OVSICORI-UNA revised a Cartago-area earthquake to magnitude 5.0 at 8 km depth and logged 60 aftershocks in the following hours, with monitoring continuing.

Romería Update: Costa Rica’s annual pilgrimage to Virgen de los Ángeles wrapped up with zero reported deaths, as the Red Cross treated 1,772 people and transferred 34 to hospitals during the nine-day emergency response. Blue Zones & Brain Health: New research from Latin America reports that culturally adapted lifestyle programs can improve memory and thinking in older adults at risk of dementia, with the most intensive coaching and structured social support showing the biggest gains. Longevity Spotlight (Nicoya): Coverage highlights Nicoya Peninsula as a “blue zone” with unusually high numbers of centenarians—even amid relative poverty—pointing to long-lived community and lifestyle patterns. Local Health & Safety: OVSICORI-UNA revised a Cartago-area earthquake to magnitude 5.0 and reported 60 aftershocks, underscoring ongoing monitoring for residents near Orosi. Health Policy/Access: Costa Rica’s orchid exporters got a regulatory boost: Phalaenopsis orchids can ship in their original growing medium to the U.S., cutting labor and costs for growers.

Chikungunya Watch (Costa Rica): The CDC updated its chikungunya travel notice for northwest Costa Rica, keeping it at Level 2 (practice enhanced precautions) and pointing to outbreaks in the region, including Playa Langosta. Dengue Travel Notices (CDC): CDC also revised its dengue destination list, with several countries dropping off and others remaining; the update is a reminder that dengue risk can shift even when overall risk stays year-round. Orchid Exports (Health & Safety): Costa Rica’s agriculture ministry says Phalaenopsis orchid exporters can ship plants in their original growing medium to the U.S., cutting labor and stress on sensitive roots—potentially improving plant handling and reducing chemical steps. Digital Health (Costa Rica): Costa Rica joined SNOMED International to advance its digital health strategy, aiming to strengthen how health data is organized and shared. Longevity Research: A new study highlights how centenarians may delay many age-related diseases, fueling interest in prevention strategies that go beyond “normal aging.” Workplace Health (U.S./Regional): A report notes burnout is widespread in the U.S., while average working hours are higher in places including Costa Rica—relevant for stress and health planning.

Dengue & chikungunya travel updates: The CDC revised its dengue destination list, with some countries dropping off while others remain, and also updated a Level 2 chikungunya notice for northwest Costa Rica’s Guanacaste (including Playa Langosta), as beach travel peaks. Digital health push: Costa Rica’s MedTech sector is expanding beyond manufacturing into broader services, while the country also joins SNOMED International to advance its digital health strategy. Workforce & health equity: A coalition of Costa Rican and Panamanian groups is urging the state to guarantee decent living and working conditions for Ngäbe-Buglé coffee workers ahead of the main harvest. Local economy with health ripple effects: Costa Rica’s Central Bank cut its 2026 growth forecast, citing El Niño-related risks that could affect agriculture, electricity, and consumer prices. Public health research on dementia: A new culturally adapted Latin America lifestyle trial reports improved thinking skills, adding momentum to dementia prevention efforts. Safety note for travelers: A Colorado student reportedly found a venomous pit viper in her carry-on after a Costa Rica trip.

Diet Confusion & Weight Loss: A new report highlights how Americans are stuck between competing diet trends—Mediterranean, DASH, keto, and Paleo—while experts say the “best” plan depends on personal health goals and conditions. Dementia Prevention Trial in Latin America: A culturally adapted lifestyle study (LatAm-FINGERS) reported improved thinking skills in participants using exercise and brain training, pointing to prevention efforts that target risk factors like smoking and inactivity. Costa Rica MedTech Expansion: Costa Rica’s MedTech firms are increasingly running services—not just manufacturing—adding corporate support, R&D, and analytics to the country’s health economy. Coffee Worker Rights: A coalition of Costa Rican and Panamanian groups is urging the state to guarantee decent conditions for Ngäbe-Buglé coffee workers ahead of the harvest season. Dengue Travel Updates: CDC revised dengue destination guidance, while chikungunya notices remain active for northwest Costa Rica, including Guanacaste’s beach areas. Digital Health Push: Costa Rica has joined SNOMED International to advance its digital health strategy. Local Health System Note: CHI Health Clinic Kearney welcomed Dr. Abby Richardson, who has provided care in Costa Rica and El Salvador.

Dementia Prevention Trial: A new LatAm-FINGERS lifestyle study in Latin America reports improved thinking skills after culturally adapted exercise and brain training, adding momentum to efforts to prevent cognitive decline before dementia develops. Local Health & Safety: A University of Colorado student returning from Costa Rica found a venomous pit viper in her carry-on, highlighting real-world risks from wildlife travel and the need for careful packing and local guidance. Digital Health in Costa Rica: Costa Rica is joining SNOMED International to strengthen its digital health strategy, aiming to improve how health data is standardized and shared. Mosquito-Borne Alerts: The CDC updated dengue travel notices, changing which countries are listed, while a Level 2 chikungunya notice continues to cover northwest Costa Rica’s outbreak area. Coffee Worker Conditions: Costa Rica and Panama advocates and former presidents are calling for better living and working protections for Ngäbe-Buglé coffee workers ahead of the harvest season. MedTech Shift: Reporting says Costa Rica’s MedTech firms are expanding beyond manufacturing into services, R&D, and analytics.