U.S. health officials have issued a new travel alert for part of Costa Rica as chikungunya cases continue to rise. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention placed Guanacaste Province under a Level 2 Travel Health Notice, signaling that travelers should use enhanced precautions.

The warning is tied to an outbreak of chikungunya, a mosquito-borne virus, with cases reported near the popular beach area of Playa Langosta. The notice puts added attention on a destination that draws many international visitors, including Americans seeking a tropical vacation.

A Level 2 alert does not tell travelers to cancel plans, but it does mean health authorities want people to take steps to lower their risk. Because chikungunya spreads through mosquito bites, preventive measures are central to the advisory.

Travelers heading to Costa Rica, especially Guanacaste, are being urged to protect themselves against mosquitoes and stay aware of local health guidance. The new CDC warning highlights how outbreaks can quickly affect major tourist regions even during busy travel periods.