The city of Milan is currently facing a surge in infectious diseases, with scarlet fever, sexually transmitted diseases, scabies, and even cases of measles on the rise.
According to the Health Protection Agency, scarlet fever has seen triple the number of infections compared to 2019, with two-thirds of the 4,800 reported cases occurring in the first part of 2023. Children under the age of ten have been particularly affected by the streptococcus infection, leading to decimated classrooms and concerned parents.
Sexually transmitted diseases have also been on the rise in Milan, especially among men in the 25 to 34 age group. Cases of syphilis, genital chlamydia, and gonorrhea have all seen significant increases in recent years, prompting concerns from health officials about the potential causes, including a decrease in condom usage and increased risky sexual behavior.
Scabies, caused by a skin parasite, has been found 1,583 times in Milan in the past year, with outbreaks even appearing in nursing homes. The disease is difficult to eradicate due to its long incubation period and pre-symptomatic contagiousness, making it crucial for individuals to recognize the symptoms of itching and red streaks on the skin.
In addition, the city has seen a small but concerning increase in cases of measles, with five cases in all of 2023 and another five already recorded in the first month of 2024. Health officials are urging the population to ensure that they are vaccinated against the disease, as complications can be severe, especially for adults.
Overall, the increase in infectious diseases in Milan serves as a reminder of the importance of preventative measures and regular screenings to protect public health. Health officials continue to monitor the situation closely and encourage individuals to take proactive steps to protect themselves and their communities from further outbreaks.