Dengue Alert in Italy: Prevention, Symptoms & Expert Control Tips 2026

Following a recent confirmed case in Busto Arsizio, a dengue alert has been issued across Italy. Below, we analyze the current situation and what the Italian National Institute of Health recommends to combat this infection.

The Current Situation in Italy

In 2023, Italy recorded 362 confirmed cases of dengue. As of March 2024, 48 cases have already been reported—all imported. While Health Minister Orazio Schillaci describes the situation as "not alarming," a general sense of concern is growing. The reason? The rapid spread of diseases from other countries and even other continents. In Brazil, for example, dengue cases number approximately 1.3 million, with projections reaching 5 million soon, as roughly 20,000 infections occur daily. The Lazio Region, following government directives, has decided to confront the threat with 500 vaccine doses arriving and another 2,500 in the coming weeks, available for those traveling to at-risk areas worldwide.

General Information About Dengue

The Italian National Institute of Health defines dengue as follows: of viral origin, dengue is caused by four very similar viruses (Den-1, Den-2, Den-3, and Den-4) and is transmitted to humans through the bites of mosquitoes that have previously bitten an infected person. There is no direct human-to-human transmission, although humans are the primary host of the virus. The virus circulates in the infected person's blood for 2–7 days, during which time a mosquito can pick it up and transmit it to others. In the Western Hemisphere, the primary vector is the Aedes aegypti mosquito, although cases transmitted by Aedes albopictus (the tiger mosquito) have also been recorded.

Symptoms and Diagnosis

Dengue causes fever 5–6 days after a mosquito bite, with temperatures that can be very high. The fever is accompanied by:

• Acute headaches
• Pain around and behind the eyes
• Severe muscle and joint pain
• Nausea and vomiting
• Skin rashes that may appear over most of the body 3–4 days after fever onset

Typical symptoms are often absent in children.

Prevention and Treatment

Through its website, the Italian National Institute of Health clarifies that the most effective preventive measure against dengue is avoiding contact with mosquitoes that carry the virus. This makes practices such as using repellents, wearing appropriate protective clothing, and using mosquito nets and screens a priority. Since mosquitoes are most active in the early morning hours, it is especially important to use protections during this part of the day.

It is also emphasized that to reduce the risk of dengue epidemics, the most effective approach is systematic and continuous mosquito control targeting the disease vector. This means eliminating all standing water near inhabited areas and carrying out targeted disinfestation treatments. For severe infestations near your property, you may need to consider stronger measures—for example, the best poison for raccoons can also be adapted for rodent and pest control in outdoor spaces, but always follow safety guidelines.

Practical Mosquito Control Tips

• Empty and clean containers that collect water, such as flower pots, buckets, and gutters, at least once a week.
• Cover water storage tanks and barrels tightly.
• Use mosquito larvicides in standing water that cannot be drained.
• Install screens on windows and doors.
• Wear long-sleeved shirts and long pants, especially during dawn and dusk.

For more comprehensive strategies to protect your yard, check out our guide on yard and outdoor pest control. Additionally, if you are dealing with other pests around your home, our home and garden pest control tips offer practical solutions.

FAQ: Dengue in Italy

1. Is dengue contagious from person to person?

No, dengue is not directly contagious between humans. It is transmitted only through the bite of an infected mosquito. However, an infected person can carry the virus in their blood for up to 7 days, during which a mosquito can become infected by biting them and then spread the virus to others.

2. What should I do if I develop symptoms after returning from a tropical country?

If you develop fever, severe headache, muscle and joint pain, or skin rashes within two weeks of returning from a dengue-endemic area, seek medical attention immediately. Early diagnosis and proper medical care significantly reduce the risk of severe complications.

3. Is there a vaccine for dengue in Italy?

Yes, the Lazio Region has secured 500 vaccine doses with an additional 2,500 arriving soon. The vaccine is currently recommended for individuals traveling to high-risk areas. Consult your local health authority or travel clinic for availability and eligibility.

4. How can I protect my home from mosquitoes that carry dengue?

The most effective steps are eliminating standing water, using mosquito repellents and nets, and keeping windows and doors screened. For persistent infestations, consider professional pest control services or targeted treatments for outdoor areas.

5. Are children at risk for severe dengue?

Children often show mild or no symptoms, but they can still be infected and transmit the virus to mosquitoes. In rare cases, children may develop severe dengue, which requires immediate hospitalization. Prevention is key for all family members.

Author: Paulo Vivere