A family of 12, including children as young as eight, fell ill after coming into contact with bats during a visit to a popular tourist spot in Costa Rica. The U.S. Centers for Disease Control reported that during a family vacation in December 2024, twelve family members developed symptoms of histoplasmosis, a fungal infection that predominantly affects the lungs. The incident occurred when the family explored the Venado Caves, known for their waterfalls, underground river, limestone formations, and a colony of bats near the Arenal Volcano.
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The caves, with a history of previous histoplasmosis outbreaks linked to bird and bat droppings, posed a risk to visitors. The CDC highlighted that the family members encountered bats and bat droppings while navigating the tight spaces within the cave. Following the exposure, the 12 individuals who toured the cave started feeling unwell about eight days later, experiencing mild to moderate symptoms attributed to histoplasmosis. Interestingly, the sole family member who did not partake in the cave exploration did not display any symptoms of the infection.
Medical attention was sought by the affected family members, with one member being hospitalized due to concerns raised by abnormal lung scans. After a review of their travel history, medical attention was shifted to address histoplasmosis concerns. Symptoms of histoplasmosis can mirror flu-like conditions, presenting with fever, chills, malaise, cough, headache, chest pain, and body aches, indicating the severity of the condition.
In the family group affected by the fungal infection, one adult tested positive for histoplasmosis through laboratory tests, while the remaining individuals received treatment for suspected or probable histoplasmosis due to their proximity to the confirmed case. To inform visitors about the risks associated with histoplasmosis, the CDC collaborated with the U.S. Embassy in Costa Rica and the Costa Rica Ministry of Health to enhance waiver forms for cave explorations. In response to the spike in cases, the U.S. Embassy in Costa Rica issued a warning emphasizing the potential complications of untreated histoplasmosis.
Histoplasmosis, a fungal disease originating from bat droppings, poses health risks to individuals exploring caves where bats reside. Awareness of such hazards is crucial for travellers visiting tourist sites to prevent the spread of infections among tourists. The incident underscores the importance of understanding the health risks associated with interacting with wildlife and natural environments to ensure the safety and well-being of all travellers. Furthermore, prompt medical attention and accurate diagnosis are essential in managing fungal infections like histoplasmosis, highlighting the need for caution and preventive measures when engaging in activities that may expose individuals to potential health hazards.