The first two local cases of dengue this year have been identified in Italy. Two people in the northern Italian provinces of Brescia and Reggio Emilia became infected this summer with the disease, which is transmitted by certain species of mosquitoes and is widespread in tropical and subtropical areas – even though they had not previously traveled. This was announced by the Higher Institute of Health (ISS) in Rome.
Dengue is a viral disease that is transmitted by mosquitoes in tropical and subtropical climates and can be life-threatening. It can be transmitted by the Asian tiger mosquito (Aedes aegypti), which is already found in parts of southern Europe. Many people show no symptoms after being infected or only have a low fever. In severe cases, however, severe bleeding and organ damage can occur.
From January 1 to September 10, 2024, the Higher Institute of Health recorded a total of 412 dengue cases. With the exception of the two local cases, all of them became infected after traveling abroad. No deaths have been reported so far. Last year, there were a total of 275 dengue cases in Italy, 82 of which were autochthonous cases. These are infections that occur outside a region typical for transmission. (dpa)
