Health Alert Following Fungal Disease Outbreak Linked to Costa Rica Cave Tour

An extended family of twelve returned from a vacation in Costa Rica with more than just memories. After exploring a local cave known for its bat population, six adults and six children from Georgia, Texas, and Washington developed symptoms consistent with histoplasmosis, a serious fungal infection.

The Centers for Disease Control reported that a Georgia-based infectious disease physician informed them of these suspected cases on January 17, 2025. This alert traced back to the family’s visit to the Venado Caves, a site previously linked to a histoplasmosis outbreak.

Details of the Illness

Although thirteen family members traveled to Costa Rica between December 21 and 28, only the twelve who had visited the cave fell ill. Ranging in age from 8 to 49, the affected individuals exhibited a range of symptoms after a concerning delay of 8 to 19 days post-exposure.

Histoplasmosis is primarily a lung infection caused by the Histoplasma fungus, often found in soils enriched with bird or bat droppings. The challenge in diagnosing this condition lies in its similarity to other diseases, sometimes leading to misdiagnoses.

Hospitalization and Recovery

One adult member of the family sought treatment at an emergency room due to abnormal findings on a chest x-ray, which raised initial concerns about lung cancer. Fortunately, all twelve family members managed to recover fully within 28 days of their cave visit, having experienced symptoms such as headaches, malaise, fever, night sweats, muscle pain, and respiratory issues.

Historical Context of Outbreaks

The Venado Caves are not new to scrutiny regarding histoplasmosis. They were previously linked to an outbreak between 1998 and 1999, affecting fifty-one people. This history prompted the CDC to take action following the latest incident.

With the help of local authorities, the CDC issued notifications to health departments through an Epidemic Information Exchange to identify any additional cases that may have gone unreported. This proactive approach aims to mitigate further risk associated with similar cave tours.

Enhanced Safety Measures

In response to the outbreak, the CDC has been working closely with both the U.S. Embassy in Costa Rica and the Costa Rican Ministry of Health. Their collaboration aims to include adequate information about potential histoplasmosis risks within the cave tour waiver forms, thereby ensuring that future visitors are better informed.

Moreover, in March 2025, the U.S. Embassy issued a health alert to inform the public about the risks linked to cave tours, specifically regarding histoplasmosis. These steps signify a commitment to increasing public awareness and safety in tourism activities.

Understanding Histoplasmosis

Histoplasmosis is often overlooked as flu-like symptoms can easily be mistaken for other ailments. It is vital for travelers, especially those visiting areas known for potential exposure to the fungus, to remain vigilant about their health post-visit. Symptoms may include fever, cough, fatigue, and chest discomfort, which can escalate if not addressed promptly.

Anyone suspecting that they have contracted the disease should seek medical advice, as early diagnosis and treatment are crucial for recovery.

Importance of Traveler Awareness

As global travel resumes, families must be aware of the health risks associated with specific destinations. While exploring nature can be an enriching experience, awareness of potential hazards, like fungal infections from specific activities, is essential. Community health concerns must be balanced with the desire for adventure and exploration.

As the story continues to unfold, ongoing vigilance and collaboration among health organizations, embassies, and local authorities remain vital in protecting travelers and local communities alike.

A Call for Preventative Action

This recent outbreak underscores the importance of preventative measures in travel-related health. Before embarking on any adventure, travelers should familiarize themselves with potential health risks and follow any advisories issued by health authorities. Engaging in responsible tourism not only ensures personal safety but also contributes to broader public health efforts.