Travellers planning trips to Italy have received a warning as the country grapples with an outbreak of a potentially lethal tropical disease. Italy has reported nearly 200 cases of dengue fever this year, a viral infection transmitted to humans through mosquito bites. Dengue fever, also known as break-bone fever due to the severe muscle and joint pain it causes, can be a serious illness and has the potential to be fatal in some instances. While traditionally associated with hot tropical regions such as Africa, Asia, and Central and South America, dengue fever is increasingly being observed in other parts of the world.
According to Travel Health Pro, Italy has recorded a total of 173 locally acquired cases of dengue fever since the beginning of 2024. This indicates that the infections originated within Italy, rather than being brought into the country by travellers from overseas. The World Health Organisation has highlighted a significant rise in dengue cases globally in recent years. The disease is now endemic in over 100 countries across various WHO regions, with Asia bearing the highest disease burden.
Symptoms of dengue fever include high fever, headache, body aches, nausea, rash, pain behind the eyes, muscle and joint pains, vomiting, and swollen glands. While most individuals recover within one to two weeks, severe cases may require hospitalisation. Symptoms of severe dengue include abdominal pain, persistent vomiting, bleeding gums or nose, fatigue, restlessness, and in some cases, fatalities have been reported.
To reduce the risk of contracting dengue fever, the WHO recommends protective measures such as wearing clothing that covers the body, using mosquito nets treated with insect repellent, installing window screens, and applying mosquito repellents containing DEET, Picaridin, or IR3535. It is advised to seek medical assistance if feeling unwell after visiting a dengue-endemic country and to seek emergency help if experiencing severe symptoms post-travel.
As dengue cases continue to spread to new regions, travellers are urged to stay informed about preventive measures and to be vigilant when visiting countries where the disease is prevalent. Stay tuned for further updates on health advisories and travel safety recommendations in light of the ongoing situation in Italy.