Dengue in Italy: Rome and Lombardy - update 1
01 Sep 2023
Media quoting public health authorities in Italy have reported cases of locally-transmitted dengue in Rome and Lombardy since the start of August 2023. None of the cases have reported foreign travel.
In Rome, a case was identified on 11 August 2023, after becoming unwell on 2 August. It is thought that he became infected in either the 9th District of Rome, or in the 14th District, possibly in the parks of Pineto, Valle Aurelia or Monte Ciocci.
In Lombardy, five cases have been reported in Castiglione d'Adda (Lodi) in recent days. Three cases have been reported in Maderno del Garda (Brescia), Padegne sul Garda (Brescia) and Monza.
Advice for Travellers
Dengue is an infection spread by mosquito bites that can cause a severe flu-like illness.
The mosquitoes which transmit dengue bite during the day, between dawn and dusk. They are particularly persistent and aggressive.
If you are travelling to an affected region, you are potentially at risk of dengue fever and should be aware of this infection.
- You can protect yourself by avoiding mosquito bites at all times.
If you develop a high temperature (fever) either during or after travelling to an affected area, you should seek medical advice as soon as possible and give details of your recent travel history.
For further information see the dengue fever page.