Costa Rica’s Children‘s Hospital Faces Critical Strain as Respiratory Virus Cases Surge
San josé, Costa Rica – The Costa Rica’s Children’s Hospital is operating at 81% ICU capacity, largely due to a dramatic increase in severe respiratory infections among young patients, health officials confirmed this week. The surge is placing significant pressure on the hospital’s resources as the country battles a rise in respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), bronchiolitis, bronchopneumonia, and other lower respiratory infections.
Recent data reveals a concerning trend: eight minors have died from respiratory complications in recent weeks, ranging in age from 17 days to 8 years old.Of those, six had pre-existing conditions such as cerebral palsy, epilepsy, or congenital heart malformations. The Ministry of Health reports a cumulative 12,136 cases of severe acute respiratory infections nationwide, with children aged 1 to 4 years and adults over 75 being the most affected.
The hospital has confirmed that three of the recent deaths are directly linked to RSV. “We remind the population to maintain all measures to avoid the transmission of respiratory viruses, such as good hand hygiene, remembering the sneezing technique and avoiding sending our sick children to kindergarten or school,” a doctor emphasized.
Authorities are urging the public to adhere to preventative measures, including frequent handwashing, proper respiratory etiquette, and avoiding crowded spaces. Thay also recommend staying current with vaccinations, promoting breastfeeding, and seeking immediate medical attention at the first sign of respiratory distress. Currently circulating viruses include Rinovirus, Respiratory Syncytial virus, and Metaneumovirus.