Globalization and Climate Change Driving Increase in Tropical Disease Cases in Italy
In recent years, Italy has seen a concerning rise in cases of tropical diseases spread by mosquitoes, particularly the Aedes albopictus, or Asian “tiger” mosquito. This summer alone, dozens of cases of dengue with autochthonous transmission were diagnosed in Lombardy and Lazio, marking a significant shift in the spread of these diseases.
The Aedes albopictus mosquito, introduced to Italy in the 1990s, has been identified as a key factor in the resurgence of tropical diseases such as chikungunya and dengue. This is especially alarming as these diseases were virtually non-existent in Italy for decades. The globalization of vectors and fast human transport have played a pivotal role in the spread of these diseases, with infected individuals being able to travel to distant locations in a matter of hours, increasing the risk of outbreaks.
Furthermore, climate change is also believed to be contributing to the surge in tropical disease cases. Aedes albopictus is slowly making its way towards Northern Europe, and the lengthening of the hot season in Italy is creating an environment where viral circulation can persist for longer periods of time. The presence of the tropical mosquito Aedes aegypti, which transmits the dengue virus more efficiently, has also been reported in Cyprus, further raising concerns about the spread of these diseases in the Mediterranean.
The resurgence of these tropical diseases is a cause for concern, and experts are urging for proactive measures to address the issue. With the potential for these diseases to become more widespread, it is crucial for authorities to take steps to control the mosquito population and mitigate the impact of climate change on the spread of these diseases. As the world continues to grapple with the Covid-19 pandemic, it is important not to overlook the growing threat of other infectious diseases, particularly those transmitted by mosquitoes.
The increase in cases of tropical diseases in Italy is a reminder of the interconnectedness of global health and the impact of environmental changes on disease spread. With the right interventions and proactive measures, it is possible to address the resurgence of these diseases and protect public health in Italy and beyond.