Between late July and early September, 10 autochthonous (locally acquired) dengue cases were reported in Italy. The affected regions are Lombardy (7 cases, province of Lodi and Lake Garda) and Lazio (1 case in Rome, 2 cases in Latina). According to media reports, an autochthonous dengue case in Parma is also under investigation. A total of 122 imported dengue cases have been diagnosed in Italy since the beginning of the year.
According to the Italian health authority, the situation described is in line with expectations for this season, as international travel has increased following the COVID 19 emergency and climatic conditions favor the proliferation of Aedes albopictus mosquitoes (also known as tiger mosquitoes), which can transmit dengue virus. Optimal mosquito protection especially during the day. In case of fever: take paracetamol preparations and ensure sufficient fluid intake. Do not take medications containing acetylsalicylic acid (e.g. Aspirin®), as these increase the risk of bleeding during a dengue infection.