Two Rare Dengue Fever Cases in Italy

A confirmed case of dengue fever in the Lombardi region acquired the infection locally from infected mosquitoes. A second suspected case occurred in Monza.

Advice

Dengue fever is rarely acquired from local mosquitoes in Italy. The risk of exposure will vary from place to place and may be high in many localities. The risk of acquiring dengue during travel depends on the destination, season and duration of trip and activities during travel. Severe dengue and death are relatively rare in general travellers but more frequently in those visiting friends and relatives.

All travellers to areas where the dengue fever virus is active can reduce their risk of exposure by taking all necessary precautions to avoid mosquito bites. Many persons with dengue fever do not seek medical care and are not reported to health authorities.