Mosquito-borne illness alert: The CDC has issued a travel advisory for chikungunya in Costa Rica’s Guanacaste Province, with most cases reported around Playa Langosta; symptoms can include fever, severe joint pain, rash, headache, and swelling, and some people may have lingering joint pain for months or years, so travelers are urged to use repellent, wear long sleeves and pants, and consider vaccination where recommended. Border health risks from mining: France is pressing Suriname over illegal gold mining along the border with French Guiana, warning of a “ticking time bomb” as mercury and arsenic levels in the Marowijne area are reported far above WHO limits, putting nearby Indigenous communities at daily risk through water and food. Public health data: Eurostat reports viral hepatitis deaths in the EU fell sharply over the past decade, but mortality remains highest in Italy, with men and working-age adults disproportionately affected. Regional wellness and safety: Chikungunya is also flagged as active in French Guiana and nearby places, while travelers are warned of elevated exposure risk in several other countries. Maritime health & recovery: After the MV St Vincent VII fishing disaster, all six crew were found alive, but one captain later died after rescue; meanwhile, the MV Barima ferry tragedy in Guyana continues with international search support, including a French Guiana medical and diving team. Environmental health enforcement: Brazil’s “gold fingerprinting” lab uses forensic science to trace gold origins and crack down on illegal mining that drives mercury contamination and harms communities.