Americans traveling to Costa Rica are being urged to take extra precautions after U.S.health officials issued a new travel warning over an outbreak of the mosquito-borne virus chikungunya.The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recently issued a Level 2 Travel Health Notice for Costa Rica's Guanacaste Province, where most cases have been reported in the popular beach destination of Playa Langosta.Known for its beaches, surfing and hiking, Guanacaste is one of Costa Rica's most popular tourist regions.STOMACH BUGS SURGING AS DOCTORS SAY CERTAIN TRAVEL ESSENTIALS COULD SAVE YOUR TRIPThe agency is advising travelers to protect themselves against mosquito bites while visiting the area.Chikungunya is spread through mosquito bites; it typically causes fever and severe joint pain, the CDC said in the travel notice. Americans traveling to Costa Rica are being urged to take extra precautions after U.S.
health officials issued a new travel warning over an outbreak of the mosquito-borne virus chikungunya.(iStock)Symptoms usually begin three to seven days after an infected mosquito bite and may also include headache, muscle pain, joint swelling and rash.While most people recover within a week, "some can have severe joint pain for months to years following acute illness," the CDC warns.CLICK HERE TO SIGN UP FOR OUR LIFESTYLE NEWSLETTERThere is no specific treatment for chikungunya, according to the agency. Prevention is the best way to avoid infection.Health officials recommend using insect repellent, wearing long-sleeved shirts and pants, and staying in accommodations with air conditioning or window screens.
(iStock)The CDC recommends using insect repellent, wearing long-sleeved shirts and pants, and staying in accommodations with air conditioning or window screens.Vaccination is also recommended for eligible travelers visiting an outbreak area.Officials have confirmed four cases and identified another 17 probable cases linked to the outbreak, according to a n...