A Family’s Costa Rica Vacation Linked to Histoplasmosis Outbreak

Vacation Turned Sour

A family of 12 is facing unexpected health challenges after returning from their trip to Costa Rica, where they enjoyed exploring natural wonders, including an infamous bat cave. The experience has taken a grim turn, as the family members began to feel unwell shortly after returning home, raising alarm and prompting medical investigations.

CDC Informed of Potential Health Risk

On January 17, 2025, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) was alerted by an infectious disease physician in Georgia about several suspected cases of histoplasmosis among travelers. This report came in the wake of a family trip from December 21 to 28, during which the family visited the Venado Caves—a location previously associated with histoplasmosis outbreaks.

Understanding Histoplasmosis

Histoplasmosis is a fungal infection caused by the Histoplasma organism, typically found in environments contaminated with bird or bat droppings. This disease primarily impacts the lungs and can result in a range of symptoms, from mild respiratory discomfort to severe health issues. The infection often goes undiagnosed in its early stages, leading to potential complications if not addressed effectively.

Initial Misdiagnosis Fuels Concerns

Among the family members, an adult was initially hospitalized due to an abnormal chest X-ray that suggested a possible case of lung cancer. This mistaken diagnosis further complicated the situation, generating worry and prompting extensive testing, ultimately leading to the correct identification of histoplasmosis.

Symptoms and Recovery

The symptoms of histoplasmosis usually manifest between 8 to 19 days after exposure. Family members reported a variety of troubling symptoms, including:

• Headaches
• Malaise
• Fever
• Night sweats
• Muscle pain
• Respiratory issues
• Gastrointestinal discomfort

Despite the seriousness of the situation, the family members recovered fully within 28 days, which is a relief considering the potential severity of this fungal infection.

Previous Outbreak’s Shadow

The Venado Caves are not strangers to such health issues; a notable outbreak occurred between 1998 and 1999, impacting 51 individuals. The history of health risks associated with the caves adds an alarming note to this recent case, highlighting the need for awareness among tourists and health officials alike.

CDC’s Response and Public Health Measures

In response to the reported cases, the CDC took immediate action by issuing an Epidemic Information Exchange alert. This alert aims to identify additional cases within the community and raise awareness of the risks linked to caving in areas known for histoplasmosis. The CDC is working collaboratively with the U.S. Embassy in Costa Rica and the Costa Rican Ministry of Health to enhance health advisories.

Health Alerts and Caving Tour Precautions

As part of the response to this health crisis, the U.S. Embassy in Costa Rica issued a health alert in March 2025, specifically addressing the risks associated with caving tours. In a bid to protect future tourists, the Costa Rican authorities are now requiring caving tour operators to include histoplasmosis risk information in official waivers, ensuring that caves notorious for this fungal infection clearly communicate the dangers to adventurers.

Lessons Learned and Future Precautions

The experience of this family serves as a critical reminder of the potential health risks that can accompany vacation adventures, especially in areas with historical health concerns. As travelers continue to seek out unique experiences, the importance of being informed and cautious cannot be overstated. It is imperative for tourists to research destinations thoroughly and heed health warnings to avoid similar health crises in the future.

Conclusion

This incident sheds light on the broader implications of infectious diseases linked to specific environments. By emphasizing the need for vigilance and precautionary measures, health officials and tourist operators can work together to foster safer travel experiences. The family from Georgia, Texas, and Washington is fortunate to have recovered, but their story calls for greater awareness regarding the hidden dangers lurking in seemingly idyllic vacation spots.