How Bad Are Mosquitoes in Italy?
WouterDuring the summer, mosquitoes are the bane of Italians’ lives. Their bites are itchy and can make people suffer joint pains and fever. The only way to avoid being bitten is to cover up.
There are many different types of mosquitoes. Some are able to transmit West Nile Virus. Others are able to transmit Zika virus, which can cause birth defects. These mosquitoes are spreading throughout the world.
The Italian government has a national task force dedicated to eradicating dangerous mosquitoes. They advise tourists to wear mosquito repellent while in Italy. They also advise people to use mosquito screens and remove stagnant water from plants.
A recent study shows that climate change will lead to the expansion of disease-carrying mosquitoes in Europe. As temperatures rise, the breeding season will extend, extending the period of disease transmission. This could eventually lead to the epidemic spreading to more than 500 million people by 2030.
One of the most invasive species is the Japanese mosquito. It is one of the 100 worst invasive species on Earth. It has been found in Austria, Hungary, Slovenia and North-East Italy.
The tiger mosquito is particularly aggressive. It will attack the same spot repeatedly.
Chikungunya fever, also known as adenovirus, is a mosquito-borne illness. It causes fever, headache, joint pains and rash. The illness is usually not serious, but can cause death. Symptoms typically appear two to six days after a mosquito bite. If you develop symptoms, see your doctor within two weeks.
