During the press conference held this Thursday, July 2, the Ministry of Health in Costa Rica confirmed 270 new cases, which brings the total to 4,023.

Daniel Salas, Minister of Health also confirmed the country has entered the phase of community transmission. Community transmission is when the transmission has reached a point where it is no longer possible to identify the source of origin of the infection.

Alexander Solis from the National Emergency Commission, explained that as of tomorrow and through July 13 the condition of orange alert will maintain for the following counties: Desamparados, Pavas, Alajuelita, San Jose, Escazu, Puriscal, Aserri, Goicoechea, Tibas, Moravia, Montes de Oca and Curridabat, Alajuela, San Ramon, Grecia, Palmares, Upala, Guatuso, Los Chiles, San Carlos, La Union, Heredia, Barva, Santo Domingo, Bagaces (Guanacaste); Cobano, Lepanto, Monteverde, Isla Chira, Isla Caballo, Isla San Lucas (all parts of Puntarenas) and Pococi (Limon).

When it comes to vehicular restrictions from Friday, July 3 and through July 13, the entire country will have day transit restriction all days of the week from 7 p.m. through 5 a.m., which means people must be at their house by 7 p.m. The restriction by car plate remains the same.

Counties in orange alert (above) and located near the northern border will maintain differentiated vehicular restriction, from 5 p.m. to 5 a.m.

The uses of facemasks is now obligatory for people that go to the supermarket and stores.

During the week commerce will be able to operate normally from 5 a.m. through 7 p.m. with exception of places that have not received authorization to reopen (bars, dance clubs, etc).

During the weekend only the following commercial activities can operate: supermarkets, pharmacies, medical centers, convenience stores and all similar, bakeries, express services, butcheries, hardware stores, car repair shops, sales of vehicle parts and services, veterinary clinics, banks, funeral homes, locksmith services.

Hotels can open all days of the week to a maximum 50% capacity.